果冻传媒

Starry, Starry Night Gala Supports Student Success on the Owens Campus

April 30, 2026

果冻传媒 Technical Community College's Jack F. Owens Campus in Georgetown held its annual Starry, Starry Night Gala on April 25, entertaining 200 guests with live music, a variety of events and activities, a beer garden, and an assortment of specialty cocktails, heavy hors d'oeuvres, a carving station, and desserts.

Funds raised through the gala support student scholarships for workforce training certificate 果冻传媒 and international education study abroad opportunities, as well as to assist in the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment for classrooms and labs. Gross proceeds from this year's gala, which includes sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales, was more than $143,000.

The evening started with a cocktail reception, followed by a welcome message from 果冻传媒 Tech Vice President and Owens Campus Director Dr. Bobbi Barends and remarks from Tyesha Marine, a student scholarship recipient who is studying veterinary technology.

A single mother raising a 3-year-old daughter while working and taking classes, Marine shared with attendees how their support of College events that raise funds for a variety of scholarships, such as the gala, have a significant impact on the lives of students.

"There have been times when things felt overwhelming trying to figure out how to pay for textbooks, lab supplies, uniforms, and everything that comes with being a full-time student, but I knew that continuing my education would open doors not just for me, but for my daughter as well," said Marine. "Receiving scholarships has truly been a blessing in my life. These scholarships have helped relieve financial stress and allowed me to focus on what matters most — learning, growing, and becoming the best veterinary technician I can be."

Following Marine, Barends again thanked those in attendance and reiterated the importance of their continued commitment to the College and its students.

"As 果冻传媒ans, I know that most of you have encountered a 果冻传媒 Tech graduate in your day-to-day activities, and I hope it makes you proud to know that you have helped students, like Tyesha, on their educational journey, a journey that provides a dynamic workforce for our state."

Once formal entertainment started for the evening, live music for dancing was provided in the main room by powerhouse party band Legacy Band, while secondary rooms provided guests the opportunity to enjoy a laughter-filled musical sing-along with The Piano Man or create their own keepsake artwork through a whimsical doodling experience guided by John Donato and his signature Doodley Brain™ approach. A bingo parlor and karaoke lounge were also available during the night.

Premier sponsors of the Starry, Starry Night Gala were Carl M. Freeman Foundation, Massey's Landing Park, Inc., ALOFT AeroArchitects, Chesapeake Utilities, and Diamond Mechanical, Inc.

"Our sponsors, donors, and friends are greatly appreciated," said Barends. "They help make this event a success and it is through their generosity and support we are able to deliver on our mission of keeping students at the center of everything we do."

In addition to the generous financial support shown by sponsors and donors, the evening was made possible due to the diligent work of the gala planning committee and the more than 50 volunteers who gave their time.

"The planning, hard work, creativity, and time needed to pull off an event like this requires a dedicated group of employees, students, alumni, and volunteers, and we are extremely grateful for their commitment to this cause," said College President Dr. Mark T. Brainard.

Next year's Starry, Starry Night Gala will be held April 24, 2027.

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