Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Education Foundation's annual gala, held on May 3rd at The Waters in Oshkosh, successfully raised $100,000 to support career and technical education (CTE) programs in the school district. The event was attended by over 120 people who were treated to an evening showcasing the impressive skills of CTE students.

A highlight of the event was the CTE student showcase featuring handcrafted items such as cribbage boards, charcuterie boards, decals, screen-printed shirts, etched glass, and miniature food truck models. Attendees also enjoyed a student battle bots demonstration and a dessert bar filled with student-made treats. Floral displays arranged by students under the mentorship of Brian Pribbernow, owner of UBloom and Robin Salzieder, owner of Robin’s Nest Florals, added elegance to the occasion.

In addition to the gala, an online hat auction was held showcasing the work of talented OASD student designer Elizabeth Bird. Bird created a collection of unique Kentucky Derby-inspired hats with support from district alums Brandi Whitney of Blonde Russian and Caitlin Stolley of Lily Guilder. The auction winners proudly displayed their unique hats at the event.

"The gala was a true celebration of the incredible talents of our CTE students and the outstanding instruction they receive," said Theresa Duren, director of the OASD Education Foundation. "We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, attendees and the community for their support in funding valuable educational opportunities."

Over half of the evening's "wish list" items identified by CTE teachers were funded and will be purchased for use in classrooms beginning next year. The remaining wish list items can be found on the Gala website and may be purchased online or through the OASD Education Foundation.

The Foundation extends its appreciation to all sponsors, donors, attendees, volunteers, and community partners for making this event a success in support of outstanding CTE programs in Oshkosh schools. Special thanks go to Triple Crown sponsor, JEK Foundation; Garland of Roses sponsor, Nicolet National Bank; CTE Champions Bray Architects, First Business Bank, Fox Valley Surgical Specialists, and Miron Construction; as well as in-kind donors 4imprint, Sturgeon Spirits, and The Waters.

The OASD Education Foundation's fundraising gala aims to support Oshkosh public schools, with proceeds benefiting a specific need or area each year. The inaugural gala in 2023 benefited visual and performing arts in the OASD.