“A DINNER TO REMEMBER” SHATTERS GOALS

  

The totals are in for the “Dinner to Remember” fundraising event. Last week, the Brenham ISD Education Foundation hosted its inaugural sold-out fundraising event, "A Dinner to Remember," at the Brenham Fireman's Training Center. The event marked a significant expansion from the previous Arts & Appetizers event, driven by the Foundation's commitment to meeting the growing needs of student programs and generating additional funds to support educators and students within the Brenham Independent School District (BISD).

Since its inception, the Brenham ISD Education Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission to enhance educational opportunities for students and support educators. To date, the Foundation has awarded over $750,000 in teacher mini-grants and has established a new endowment scholarship for graduating seniors of Brenham High School.

The live auction showcased student projects, including a collective artwork created by the art students at Alton Elementary, which fetched $4,100 and was purchased by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Subsequently, a community member's generous match doubled the total proceeds to $8,200, highlighting the remarkable generosity of Brenham's residents.

Reflecting on the event's success, Kyle Merten, President of the Brenham ISD Education Foundation Board, remarked, "It's been incredible to witness our proud community recognizing the needs of public education here in Brenham and working together to provide support. Their generosity has been truly remarkable, and we are thrilled to announce our current fundraising total of $173,000. This achievement not only surpasses our initial goal but also underscores our community's unwavering dedication to providing support and improving our schools for our educators and students."

The Brenham ISD Education Foundation is still receiving donations and add-ons to student and campus items. For more information about how to support the Brenham ISD Education Foundation or upcoming events, please visit the Brenham ISD Website.

FULL BRENHAM ISD PRESS RELEASE:

Brenham ISD Education Foundation Shatters Fundraising Goal with Inaugural Event

Brenham, Texas - April 19, 2024 - Last week, on April 11, the Brenham ISD Education Foundation hosted its inaugural sold-out fundraising event, "A Dinner to Remember," at the Brenham Fireman's Training Center. The event marked a significant expansion from the previous Arts & Appetizers event, driven by the Foundation's commitment to meeting the growing needs of student programs and generating additional funds to support educators and students within the Brenham Independent School District (BISD).

Since its inception, the Brenham ISD Education Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission to enhance educational opportunities for students and support educators. To date, the Foundation has awarded over $750,000 in teacher mini-grants and has established a new endowment scholarship for graduating seniors of Brenham High School.

The success of "A Dinner to Remember" would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of student and teacher volunteers, who worked alongside community members to ensure the event's success. Over 60 volunteers, including various student groups such as AVID, Cheer, CTE, Art, Band, FFA, Student Council, and NHS, contributed their time and effort to make the evening memorable.

Furthermore, the overwhelming support of the community and local businesses played a pivotal role in the event's success. Eighty-seven local businesses and community members rallied behind the event as sponsors, demonstrating unwavering support for Brenham ISD. Notable sponsors included Brianna's as the Title Sponsor, Bluebell as the Premiere Event Sponsor, and Baylor Scott & White, Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative, Brenham National Bank, and HEB as Elite Live Auction Sponsors.

In addition to the overwhelming support from sponsors, many businesses contributed in-kind donations and essential items for the event and auctions, underscoring the community's collective commitment to the success of Brenham's educational initiatives.

The evening featured a delectable rib-eye steak dinner, catered by Goebel Catering, complemented by Bluebell ice cream and beverages. Attendees enjoyed engaging activities such as men's and women's Poker Chip Games, raffle drawings, and both silent and live auctions. Notably, the live auction showcased student projects, including a collective artwork created by the art students at Alton Elementary, which fetched $4,100 and was purchased by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Subsequently, a community member's generous match doubled the total proceeds to $8,200, highlighting the remarkable generosity of Brenham's residents.

It's worth noting that sales from student works are split between the student, the organization they represent, and the Foundation. These funds will be used to award teachers mini-grants and student scholarships, furthering the Foundation's mission of supporting educational excellence in Brenham ISD.

Reflecting on the event's success, Kyle Merten, President of the Brenham ISD Education Foundation Board, remarked, "It's been incredible to witness our proud community recognizing the needs of public education here in Brenham and working together to provide support. Their generosity has been truly remarkable, and we are thrilled to announce our current fundraising total of $173,000. This achievement not only surpasses our initial goal but also underscores our community's unwavering dedication to providing support and improving our schools for our educators and students."

The proceeds from "A Dinner to Remember" will enable the Brenham ISD Education Foundation to continue its mission of supporting educators and students through grants and scholarships. As the Foundation looks ahead, it remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence within Brenham ISD and extending its impact throughout the community.

The Brenham ISD Education Foundation is still receiving donations and add-ons to student and campus items. For more information about how to support the Brenham ISD Education Foundation or upcoming events, please visit the Brenham ISD Website.

Brenham ISD Education Foundation Board:

Kyle Merten, President   
Anthony Jasinski, Vice-President 
Amy Ehlert, Treasurer
Brooke Trahan, Secretary
Genna Lechler, Member
Katie Burch, Member
Matt Wellmann, Member
Carl Prihoda, Member
Bonnie Brinkmeyer, Member
Tina Henderson, Member
Mallory Ehlert, Member
Natalie Lange, Member

 For further information, please contact:

Brooke Trahan
Brenham ISD Education Foundation Secretary
Director of Communications Brenham Independent School District
979.277.3715
btrahan@brenhamk-12.net