DANBURY, CONN. — Western Connecticut State University faculty, staff, students and friends will honor Union Savings Bank (USB) for its tireless efforts to foster community growth at the 23rd University Ball this spring. The popular annual event will be at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, in the Feldman Arena of the William O’Neill Convocation Center on the university’s Westside campus, 43 Lake Avenue Extension in Danbury. This year’s theme, “A Beacon on Main,” illustrates how USB has been a guiding light in the region for more than 142 years, and under the leadership of President John Kline has continued a history of generosity and activity that has moved the city constantly forward.

“The ball is our largest fundraiser and is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the wonderful work of our supporters,” said Dr. G. Koryoe Anim-Wright, the university’s vice president for Institutional Advancement. “I am looking forward to honoring Union Savings Bank as one of the region’s most durable and generous institutions.”

The university also will recognize and celebrate several major donors whose loyal support has illuminated the promise and progress of WestConn and the greater Danbury community.

Although this event is dedicated to Union Savings Bank, the main purpose is to support WestConn students. Last year, the WCSU Foundation disbursed more than $230,000 in scholarship awards to 197 students and provided funding in support of academic programs, student trips and international travel.

The WCSU Foundation fuels the university’s effort to change lives. As a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) organization, the foundation raises funds and manages charitable gifts for the support of the university. Working with the university and other partners, the foundation operates under the leadership of a board that’s made up of respected community professionals.

 

The foundation’s philanthropic programs include annual giving, special events, major gifts, capital campaigns, endowments and planned giving. The foundation sponsors on-campus activities and supports university projects that enrich the entire learning experience for students and offer vivid cultural opportunities for the greater community. A gift to the foundation can complement limited state funding to projects such as scholarship programs; building funds; campus beautification; and cultural, artistic and athletic programs.

The foundation offers 29 scholarships across all academic disciplines. The awards help many students stay in school or take classes without having to work multiple jobs.

David Strout is the recipient of a President’s Award.

“I couldn’t be here without financial aid,” Strout said. “And receiving the President’s Award was the crowning glory. I look at that award as ‘You made it with flying colors.’”

Joseph “J.J.” DePasqua was awarded a Jonathan Mottley Memorial Scholarship as well as the first Dr. Mel Goldstein Scholarship.

“It felt really nice to have someone say ‘This scholarship is not for need, it’s because you are working hard,’” DePasqua said. “It is nice to know that there are those out there who care about success as well as hard work. I really appreciate those who have donated to help me, but more importantly I value those who have donated to keep many students working hard in school.”

This year’s ball will feature dining and dancing, a silent auction and a raffle for a week-long Mexican resort vacation, along with the recognition of Union Savings Bank and other community “beacons” whose leadership is so important to a thriving community.

The ball’s underlying purpose, and the reason to attend, said Anim-Wright, is to further the academic careers of young people.

“It’s all about the students,” Anim-Wright said. “Funds from this event support scholarship opportunities and every gift helps. That is why the WCSU Foundation puts so much effort into ensuring the success of this event.”

Tickets for the ball are $200 per person and are available by calling (203) 837-8279 or online at https://www.wcsu.edu/ia/ball.asp.

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.