Kiran Pandey

Staff Writer

The College of Arts and Letters raised over $65,000 at its 5th annual New Year’s Eve Gala while setting a new attendance record.

The funds will help students continue their studies, perform research, and build a strong career in their field of interest.

The New Year’s Eve Gala is held every year to raise money for students in visual and performing arts.

“Our students got a chance to display their talents as well as gain professional experience while helping raise money for scholarships,” said Melissa Lee, Director of Marketing and Recruitment for the college in a statement released by ISU. “We are glad that so many of our community members attended this event and were able to see the talented students they support when donating to ISU.”

The night’s entertainment included theatre students who performed a variety of their talents including sword fighting and a fashion show. Art students also displayed their talents in an art gallery and ISU faculty and students performed various music pieces.

The event has been a platform for students to show their skills and creations. The event also provides scholarships for students in the College of Arts and Letters and many students who participated are previous scholarship recipients. 

This year’s gala was made possible by several businesses including Portneuf Medical Center, Mountain View Hospital, Farm Bureau Insurance, and ISU Credit Union. More businesses donated goods and services including the Idaho State Journal, KPVI News 6, Bell Photography, Nel’s Bi-Lo Market, KISU, Butcher Block, and Christine’s Floral.

The event is typically attended by professors, donors, parents and Pocatello community members involved with ISU.

“We are honored by the support from corporate and local donors,” said Dean Kandi Turley-Ames in a press release. “We are excited about giving that back to our students through scholarships.”

The College of Arts and Letters is optimistic about the future of the gala and its impact on students.