Record breaking Black and Gold Gala raises over $1 million dollars for Emporia State students

by Lindsay Thompson

Emporia, KS (11/05/2025) — It was a night centered on students. During Emporia State University's Black & Gold Gala last Friday night, over $1 million was raised for student scholarships and contributions continue to come in. This moment reflects the power of Hornet Nation's generosity and belief in the transformational impact of higher education.

Audience contributions and a donor match turned an initial $5,000 into $30,000 in scholarships. Within minutes, over $900,000 was raised, reflecting an extraordinary commitment to Emporia State students. Continued contributions and subsequent gifts pushed the total to over $1 million.

"This milestone is about more than a number - it's about a shared belief in what's possible when we put students at the center of everything we do," said Jason Drummond, president and CEO of the Emporia State University Foundation. "Hornet Nation showed that our collective investment in students is the most powerful way to shape the future of Emporia State and Kansas."

The Gala also recognized six outstanding Emporia State students with awards celebrating academic excellence, leadership and personal growth - qualities that exemplify the university's highest ideals.

Student Award Recipients

The Scholar Award - Recognizing outstanding academic achievement, commitment to learning and consistent pursuit of excellence in the classroom.

Airyn Laird, biology major from Woodward, Oklahoma
Corban Collins, music major from El Dorado Springs, Missouri

The Trailblazer Award - Honoring innovative spirit, creative leadership and inspiring engagement that sets a standard for others to follow.

Adrie Powell, art major from Brookville, Kansas
Cooper Schroer, business major from Strong City, Kansas

The Rising Star Award - Celebrating exceptional promise, remarkable growth and emerging leadership that reflect a bright future ahead.

Jenna Smith, nursing major from Olpe, Kansas
Briar Esterline, psychology major from El Paso, Texas

Friday night's Black & Gold Gala transcended an evening of elegance and generosity, becoming a defining highlight of Emporia State University's Year of Celebration. The university is profoundly grateful for the extraordinary support of alumni, friends and community members who continue to invest in the success and future of ESU students.

Note for media: Video of the fundraising and announcement is available online: https://emporia.link/ScholarshipFundraising. It runs 2:33.

About Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.

ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.

For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.