Education Foundation Gala, Silent Auction Raises Funds for Madison Schools

The Madison community showed its support for the Madison Education Foundation (MEF) at the Foundation’s fifth annual Adult Gala at the Madison Hotel. The gala featured a silent auction, with prizes that included a trip to Napa Valley and the Kennedy Space Center.

The Glynallyn Ballroom at The Madison Hotel was filled with guests who helped raise funds to further the mission of MEF on Nov. 14. The Foundation awards grants to K-12 teachers in Madison public schools for initiatives that energize the creative and academic lives of students.

“MEF is currently reviewing Fall grant cycle applications from teachers at all five district schools. This is a very robust grant cycle and the generosity of our supporters will help fund these dynamic teacher-initiated ideas,” says MEF President Mary Schaenen.

Numerous volunteers were involved in the planning and execution of the evening, led by Gala Co-Chair and MEF Trustee, Phyllis Watson, and Gala Co-Chair, Jennifer Groller. Many of Madison’s teachers and administrators attended the Gala as well, including Dr. Michael Rossi, Superintendant of Madison District Schools.

“MEF represents the deep and progressive commitment to our children’s future that our community values. This can be seen throughout the school system, at all levels and in all classrooms. The MEF Gala is an event that accomplishes three main objectives, as I see them,” Dr. Rossi said.

“First, the Gala is designed to raise money toward the critical mission of the MEF. Second, the event, in a sense, showcases the splendor of the Borough, from the location to the prizes available. Finally and certainly worth mentioning, it’s a lot of fun!” Dr. Rossi added.

One of the Silent Auction items that drew quite a bit of attention upon entry to the adult social was from Aston Martin Summit/Short Hills, who donated an Aston Martin luxury sports car (pictured) for a weekend.

“Corporate sponsors like Aston Martin really help boost the profits of our event. We are very grateful for their support,” says Watson.

Additionally, this year MEF worked with a Silent Auction consignment company to offer some once in a lifetime experience packages, including a trip to Napa Valley as well as the Kennedy Space Center. Both items successfully received bids and added to the excitement of the evening.

MEF’s next event will be the 12th annual Madison 5K Run/Walk/Kids’ Fun Runs on Sunday, May 3rd, 2015.

About the Madison Education Foundation

The Madison Education Foundation (MEF) awards grants to K-12 teachers for initiatives that energize the creative and academic lives of students but are above and beyond the school budget. Since its inception in 2003, MEF has awarded more than $835,000 in grants. MEF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 1093 Madison NJ 07940 or submitted online. Click here or e-mail info@mefnj.org for more information.

Photo courtesy of Penny Sullivan