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Foundation reports record Sapphire Ball proceeds; college to expand alumni outreach
Summary
Foundation Executive Director Cathy Cogburn reported the 2026 Sapphire Ball netted more than $64,000 and that roughly $200,000 in Foundation scholarships have been or are being awarded; the Board also approved the Live Alumni platform to reconnect 1,500–2,000 alumni.
Cathy Cogburn, Executive Director of the Foundation, told the Board the final net proceeds from the 2026 Sapphire Ball ‘‘exceeded $64,000,’’ marking a record for the event. She said late donations, including a contribution facilitated through a Foundation board member and QuikTrip, helped lift the final total and that about $200,000 in Foundation scholarships have been or are being awarded for the coming academic year.
Chairman Latt Jeffrey said the Board approved implementation of the Live Alumni platform to expand and organize the alumni database, with the goal of reconnecting an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 additional alumni to support engagement and fundraising. Cogburn also outlined plans for a donor appreciation banquet in the fall to connect scholarship recipients with donors. Regents praised the Foundation's fundraising performance and encouraged continued outreach.
