First Niagara College annual gala in years comes with a $1 million surprise

Due to the pandemic, Niagara College has held their annual gala in years but when it returned on April 15 at Fallsview Casino Resort, they sat a record 700 students and staffers.

The numbers just got bigger from there at the event dubbed ‘Celebrating Dreams’. Outgoing Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) President Sam Jemison announced a surprise $1-million pledge for future student scholarships.

“For many students, the cost of attending college can be insurmountable … this is why scholarships play a crucial role in creating opportunities for students to not only overcome financial barriers, but to realize their dreams,” said Jemison to a stunned crowd.

“Investing in scholarships is not only an investment in the future of our society but a celebration of the dreams of those who will change the world for the better, and they ensure students have the support they need to achieve their goals.”

For his part, Niagara College President Sean Kennedy got to attend his first-ever gala since he became president.

“It’s great to be back with a reimagined gala after three years, and it’s clear that our community has missed this event as well, given the record attendance this year,” said Kennedy.

“Our annual gala is at the heart of what our College is all about: helping students achieve their dreams. We are so grateful for our generous supporters.”