News

Panther Foundation Gala

The Panther Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money to support Spring Lake Park Schools, raised more than $140,000 during its 15th annual gala “Jewel of the North” on Saturday, February 23.  

“We are thrilled to have raised more than $140,000 during this year’s annual gala," said Panther Foundation chairperson Marla Sciara. "We are proud to have a dedicated and generous community that continues to show their support for our students and district.”  

This year was particularly special, celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the Panther Foundation. A video highlighted the last 15 years of giving, grant awards, impact on Spring Lake Park Schools and more. Watch the video here. Charter board members Marilynn Forsberg, Jill Brown and Terry Dussault were all in attendance and honored.  

“Spring Lake Park Schools is very fortunate to have a partner with the Panther Foundation all these years,” said superintendent Jeff Ronneberg. “We greatly appreciate all that they have contributed to our district.” 

Each year the Panther Foundation, in collaboration with Spring Lake Park Schools, identifies a special project, called “Fund-a-Dream” to be introduced at the gala that is intended to make a difference in the lives of students. This year’s program was to support and expand Pathways to reach all grade levels and acquire the essential resources, supplies and equipment. Pathways helps students find their passion, identify their strengths and explore the interests that will lead them on a path to accomplish their goals – whatever they may be. 

This year’s Fund-a-Dream for Pathways raised more than $26,000. Click here to watch a video about this year's Fund-A-Dream.

This year’s event had over 200 people in attendance and guests could bid on more than 350 silent auction items as well as participate in a live auction with the chance to win trips across the country, tickets for local sporting events and fun family experiences.

Annual Sponsors of the Panther Foundation include Marsh & McLennan Agency, Meyer Contracting, Chris & Niomi Hasling, Hoffman Weber Construction, Imagine Smiles, Kraus-Anderson Construction Company, Tonya & Kevin Rowe, and State Farm - Tom Holland Agency. 

After this past weekend’s event, the Panther Foundation has surpassed $1.5 million dollars in support of projects for student experiences and world-class learning in the district since 2004. To date, more than 277 projects have been funded. The Foundation’s next event is scheduled for June 24, 2019 where the Foundation will host the 7th Annual Golf Fundraiser at the Refuge Golf Club.  

View photos of the gala on the Panther Foundation Facebook page

About the Panther Foundation 

The volunteer, community-based Panther Foundation annually raises funds, which are turned into grants and special projects to impact the education of each student, empower strategic innovations and create partnerships with the community. Since 2004, more than $1,700,000 has been raised and awarded in the form of Panther Foundation grants and special projects to benefit students. 

Learn more about the Panther Foundation and how to get involved on their website

Gala attendees looking at silent auction items
Gala attendees smiling with the Panther mascot
A group of Gala attendees smiling