Creative Arts Center | Photo by Cheyenne Waddell | Edited by Jessica Fugett | The Wright State Guardian
The March 28 ArtsGala has been cancelled due to Wright State University (WSU) canceling all public events in response to the confirmed cases of coronavirus in Ohio.
Hosted annually, the ArtsGala showcases the talent of fine and performing arts students at WSU and raises money for student scholarships.
According to the ArtsGala webpage, the event has raised nearly $3 million for fine and performing arts students in the 20 years of the event being held.
“The mission of ArtsGala is to provide financial support for our students. We're going to continue to make sure that we uphold that obligation to provide financial support towards students,” said College of Liberal Arts Director of Events and Community Engagement Nick Warrington.
Scholarship fundraisers to continue
Although the event is cancelled this year, money will still be raised for the scholarship fund through patrons and sponsors.
Patrons and sponsors will be asked for the money from their previously purchased tickets to be donated directly to the scholarship fund.
Any sponsorships already given will be donated to the scholarship fund as well.
To give thanks for patrons and sponsors allowing their ticket money to be given to the scholarship fund, there will be two events in the fall where those who bought tickets can experience the talent of WSU art students.
Postponing performances
In September, the School of Music will be hosting a concert in downtown Dayton where ArtsGala patrons will able to watch from reserved sections, as well as for the theatre department’s fall play.
Starting March 20, the ArtsUNgala crowdfunding campaign will begin. This campaign is an opportunity for the broader Dayton community to donate and contribute towards the scholarship fund.
According to Warrington, the goal is to raise at least $100,000 through the ArtsUNgala campaign.
Online silent auction
The ArtsGala online silent auction will begin March 23, featuring two art pieces made by WSU fine arts students. All proceeds from silent auction bids will go directly into the scholarship fund.
According to the official ArtsGala 2020 announcement sent out by Warrington, the silent auction will include Broadway Experiences redeemable up to one year, other performance tickets locally and regionally, cigars and wine.
“For the April 10, 2020 ArtsGala, we’ll be back, bigger and better than ever,” said Warrington.
Coronavirus is a respiratory illness spread between people in close contact with each other or through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. To protect yourself and those around you, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
