Last week’s Gift of Education fundraising initiative drew more people and yielded more financial support than did last year’s, Cape Fear Community College Foundation officials announced Friday morning.

Combined attendance at the two Gift of Education events – a May 17 luncheon and a May 18 breakfast – was 26 percent higher than attendance in 2017, according to a news release from CFCC. Donors contributed just over $267,500 in cash and pledges, a 5 percent increase over 2017.

Proceeds from the Gift of Education will be used primarily for student scholarships. Donors were also given the option to support the renovation of the College’s Schwartz Center, which houses the college’s physical education classes as well as its basketball and volleyball programs. 
 
"We are elated with the support from our generous community at this year's Gift of Education events,” foundation Executive Director Marty Richards said in the release. “Every dollar given will have a positive impact on the students of Cape Fear Community College."
 
This year’s 13th annual Gift of Education was moved from the Schwartz Center, its traditional venue, because the facility is undergoing renovation. Instead, the event took place in the lobby of the Wilson Center, and was held twice to accommodate attendance.

The program was essentially the same for the luncheon and breakfast. Attendees heard from two 2018 CFCC graduates and one student who is continuing his studies. All three related the key role financial assistance played in enabling them to overcome serious obstacles to education.

“The Gift of Education serves as a celebration of student success and a heartfelt thank you to the numerous community members and organizations who help our students to succeed,” CFCC President Jim Morton said in the news release.