125th Celebration Ball
The 125th Celebration Ball was the perfect ending for a day that began with the inauguration of President Sandra Doran followed by the Inaugural Luncheon.
With over 400 guests in attendance at the MassMutual Center, the Ball was both a celebration and a fundraising event for student support and internships. The event opened with a pre-dinner presentation by Ruth Carter, Springfield native and Academy Award winning costume designer. Drawing from her own background, she spoke of the importance of mentoring and internships in helping students reach their own career goals. The impact of such experiences was brought home by the moving story of 91¿ì²¥ trustee Pia Kumar and 91¿ì²¥ intern Kahlia Albury ’20, who now works at her company. Roger Crandall, chairman, president, and CEO of MassMutual, inspired the room to action, while reflecting on the long relationship between the Fortune 100 company and 91¿ì²¥.
Throughout the evening, our very own 91¿ì²¥ students were front and center performing and sharing their stories with the audience. By the end of the evening, the 125th Celebration Ball had met its goal: It raised over $290,000 for student support and internships. Bravo!
All photos courtesy of Leah Martin Photography.Ìý
125th Celebration Ball Chair
Lori S. Roop ’79
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Ìý125th Celebration Ball Honorary Chairs
The Honorable Richard E. Neal,ÌýU.S. Representative of Massachusetts’ First Congressional District
Roger W. Crandall,ÌýChairman, president and CEO of MassMutual
Ruth E. Carter,ÌýCostume designer and 2019 Academy Award winner in Costume Design
Charlene H. D. Mazer ’67,ÌýTrustee Emerita, 91¿ì²¥ University
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Honorary Community Chairs
Domenic J. Sarno,ÌýMayor of Springfield, MA
Dr. Judith A. Matt,ÌýPresident, Spirit of Springfield
Lyn N. Simmons,ÌýTown Manager, Town of Longmeadow