The 45th Annual Corban Connection took place on Saturday, April 14th at Corban’s Psalm Center.
The main purpose of the conference is to fundraise for scholarships, school projects as well as campus improvement projects, while having a great time recognizing the talent of our students.
It began at 11:15 with a light brunch provided by Aramark and music performed by pianist Miriam Stapp, harpists Rachelle Schafer and Jeff Parsons, and singers Nikki Knight and Ryley Forrest.
“I have students be speakers and performers, it’s all about highlighting our students,” said Deleen Wills, the event’s coordinator.
Senior Rachelle Schafer said, “I just love Corban Connection. Deleen always does an amazing job, the colors were great and I love witnessing how all the women come together to benefit Corban students.”
Approximately 220 women attended the conference and enjoyed the performances of the students. “I always have a blast playing for the ladies,” said Schafer. This past year, the conference raised funds to furnish PVG’s study room, two banks of lights in the Psalm Center, a new sound system in the dining room (that will soon be added), and scholarships. The event raised $17,000, which goes toward the $20,000 goal in place. “We select projects to benefit you, our students,” said Wills.
In previous years, this event has raised well over $15,000 in pledges and gifts which then are given to students as need-based scholarships. Deleen Wills, Director of Alumni Services, began organizing the event six months ago. “This is just one part of my job, I do many events and tasks,” she said.
Back in 1967, this fundraiser used to be called “Women for Western,” and since then, its name has changed, but not its purpose. “This luncheon got started in the ‘El Cerrito’ campus in California, where women get together to hear students through stories and music.”