Ancilla College hosted its 2nd annual Changing Lives Scholarship Dinner Friday, November 7th. The event provided an opportunity for the College to raise money to help fund the scholarships, grants and awards that last year totaled over $1 million and were given to approximately 90% of its students.
“The Changing Lives Scholarship Dinner was a wonderful occasion celebrating all those who have earned scholarships to attend Ancilla and thanking all those who continue to make those scholarships possible,” stated Dr. Ken Zirkle, president of Ancilla College. He continued, “It was heartwarming to see so many people who believe in the mission of Ancilla College. The thoughts, prayers, and generous donations of all those present certainly contribute to the success of Ancilla.”
The evening included a live auction, silent auction, dinner, awards ceremony, and entertainment by Andrew Jennings. Most tables were hosted by a current Ancilla College student so guests had a chance to interact with one of many recipients to benefit from the generous donations made each year.
Two awards were presented including the Sister Mary Dolores Outstanding Alumni Award. This award is granted in memory of the founder of the Ancilla Alumni Association and an English teacher for more than 30 years at Ancilla, Sister Mary Dolores Greifer, PHJC. The award recognizes dedicated alumni that have demonstrated steadfast involvement with Ancilla College. The award this year was awarded to Dale A. Adams.
The other was the Ancilla Award. Initiated in 1975, the Ancilla Award is the college’s highest award and honors an individual, couple or organization that has shown distinguished community service and who has been a loyal and dedicated supporter of Ancilla College. This year’s winner was Richard and the late Suzanne J. Biddle Belcher.
“Overall, we were very pleased with the results of the second annual Changing Lives Scholarship Dinner. Thanks to the generosity of our guests and other donors, nearly $35,000 was raised for scholarships that will assist our students. The message of the importance of Ancilla College to this area came through loud and clear and we look forward to building on the success of this event in years to come,” said Todd Zeltwanger, vice-president of development at Ancilla College.
