NORTHERN TODAY 9 WINTER 2024 NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY | News Northern Night celebrates 25th anniversary small wine tasting event has flourished into a quartercentury tradition and Northern’s largest fundraising gala. In November, Northern Night celebrated its 25th anniversary with the theme “Invest in the Legacy.” The annual gala was host to 570 donors, alumni and friends. There’s still wine, of course. “It really has become one of the largest events in our community and a very special evening for Northern to celebrate all that has been accomplished throughout the year with the help of our supporters,” said Lauren Bittner, Northern Foundation marketing and development coordinator. The event gives the community a chance to break out their special occasions dresses and suits as they enjoy a night of extravagance. The evening begins with a champagne hour with hors d'oeuvres, followed by a dinner, program, silent and live auctions, and entertainment to finish out the evening. “Northern Night is a legacy event in itself but it’s the donors, alumni and friends that have created that legacy with their investments over the years. We’re really proud of that and we hope to continue building on it for many years to come,” said Bittner. Over the years, the event has raised more than $2.5 million. There were a number of items up for auction this year, including Northern game day experience packages, a wine sommelier private party, getaway packages to various locations, a dinner with NSU’s president, and numerous custom Northern pieces, which are always very popular. “Whether it’s funding scholarships, travel opportunities for students, faculty and staff, University marketing efforts, alumni engagements, or other vital activities, Northern Night plays a crucial role in advancing Northern State University,” Bittner said. “Northern Night is an annual event that supports Northern State University by bringing together donors, supporters, and the community to raise funds and celebrate the successes of the University.” A Give to NSU There are numerous ways you can offer philanthropic support for Northern State University. Below are just some of the ways you can partner with Northern to make an impact: To learn more about giving opportunities, contact the NSU Foundation at nsualumni@northern.edu, or visit northernstatefoundation.com. The Northern Fund A powerful source of unrestricted funding is critical to the continued success of NSU. These gifts have an immediate impact on today’s students, faculty and the university overall. NSU Wolves Club This program is the largest annual fundraising program for intercollegiate athletics. Founded in 1978, these boosters raise annual revenue for Northern athletics. Heritage Society The Heritage Society honors a special group of individuals who have named the NSU Foundation as beneficiary through planned gifts such as trusts, insurance and bequests. Friends of the Arts/NSU Friends of the Arts/NSU is the supporting body for the School of Fine Arts and Northern. Its support and membership ensures the highest quality of education in visual and performing arts. Annual Scholarships Annual Scholarships provide critical financial support to students who meet criteria established by the donor and university. Legacy of Leadership Legacy of Leadership provides naming opportunities for programs, buildings or endowments to memorialize a loved one, salute a member or honor one’s entire family.
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