Crandall University celebrated its 70th Anniversary this September, and part of that celebration included a gala dinner with the goal of raising funds for student scholarships. Nearly 300 people were in attendance at the Gala, including representatives from local and provincial government, leaders of various organizations around Greater Moncton and beyond, as well as Crandall students and alumni from across the institution's entire history.
Originally founded in 1949 as a high school, Crandall University, then called the United Baptist Bible Training School, had a modest beginning, but through perseverance, the vision of its leadership, and vital support from members of the community, over the years it grew from high school to junior college, to degree-granting institution, to the Liberal Arts university that exists today.
Last year, Crandall gave out over $700,000 in scholarship money to deserving students - an all time high for the institution.
"We want to see that continue to increase, and we need your help to do it," stated Vice President for Advancement Dr. Robert Knowles at the dinner event.
And the people responded generously, with donations and pledges exceeding $240,000 to date.
"We are thrilled to see the outpouring of support that has come from the community," said President and Vice Chancellor, Dr. Bruce Fawcett. "As a private institution, we depend on the support we receive to make a Crandall education as affordable and accessible as possible for our students, and what we've received from the evening will go a long way to accomplishing that goal."
The evening of the Gala, the guests received an update from the President and Vice Chancellor, Dr. Bruce Fawcett, a keynote address from the Chancellor, Mr. Don Simmonds, and an appeal for support of student scholarships by the Vice President for Advancement, Dr. Robert Knowles. Special music was provided by alums Alex and Angela Pattison, as well as harpist Dorothy Brzezicki. Emcees for the evening were Professor Amy MacArthur and Registrar's Office Assistant Bethany Robertson. Greetings were brought on behalf of the Province of New Brunswick by the Honourable Ernie Steeves and on behalf of the City of Moncton by Councillor Susan Edgett of Ward 4.
