GCC Foundation cancels annual banquet

By CHARITY SMITH

csmith@yourdailyglobe.com

Ironwood – The Gogebic Community College Foundation will not hold its 25th annual Celebration of Achievement banquet this year, due to the restrictions on large gatherings with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Normally, we love it. It is one of our favorite events. It is a reason to bring alumni back to campus. But with gatherings not being safe, we had to change our plans,” said Kelly Marczak, director of the GCC Foundation.

The banquet annually honors individuals and organizations the foundation's board of directors believes have “exemplified their commitment to the college,” according to a past press release.

Marczak said the board had some discussion about the event and decided that it's not something that would have the same impact if it was held virtually. She said they did not want to select honorees if they did not have a forum in which they could honor them.

In past years, the board has selected three to five honorees to receive awards, from the following categories: Distinguished Alumni; Honorary Friend to the College (individual, business or organization); Outstanding Staff Member; Distinguished Faculty Member; Outstanding Foundation Board Member; Outstanding College Trustee; Distinguished College President, Dean or Administrator.

“This is usually an annual event in which we celebrate those people and-or organizations that have made an impact on the past or future of Gogebic Community College, our foundation and our students,” Marczak said.

She said they hope to be able to hold the event again next year. The event has featured a reception and dinner prior to the awards ceremony, and draws 125 to 150 people, according to Marczak.

The foundation works to promote, encourage and aid GCC in the development of education programs and the expansion of facilities through community support, according to its mission statement. According to Marczak, the group aims to:

—Fund special projects that benefit students and the community

—Award scholarships to students.

—Assist the College with building construction and renovation projects.

—Communicate with the many GCC alumni and friends through the quarterly newsletter.

—Organize alumni and friends social events.

—Provide cultural opportunities that enhance the educational experience.

The foundation will have an annual fund drive via social media and direct mail marketing, according to Marczak.

For more information, visit gogebic.edu/alumni or call Marrczak at 906-307-1202.