Story after story, GateWay Community College students and graduates paraded down the red carpet sharing the challenges they faced in pursuing their education. From homelessness, and domestic abuse to pregnancies and more, the stories were heart wrenching but a common theme emerged…Gecko Pride. These students were now about to graduate or have already done so, thanks to the support they received at GateWay Community College. Their stories were being highlighted at "Runway to Success", a college fundraising event held on Friday, April 7.
“This is the second year we have hosted Runway to Success, and we were able to double attendance from last year,” says Kristin Gubser, Director of External Affairs and Development. “More importantly, this allows us to raise funds to continue providing the scholarships and additional support our students need to succeed.”
Hosted at the Phoenix Zoo’s C.W. & Modene Neely Education and Event Center, Runway to Success featured an evening of music, food, and a unique runway show. More than 20 students signed up to walk the red carpet and share their success stories as well as the unique programs GateWay offers. Beyond scholarships, the success of many of these students was made possible through a number of programs working in collaboration as well as staff and faculty that were there to support each student.
A big thank you to all our sponsors: Blush Boutique, Core Construction, Grand Canyon University, JCPenney, Mary Rabago Productions and iHeartRadio.
Stay tuned for next year's event.