Special Events

On Thursday, April 29, more than 225 families from the D-E community came together virtually to participate in a Kentucky Derby-themed event raising significant funds for Financial Aid.  Even though pandemic restrictions are being lifted, many felt it was still safer to conduct our annual fundraiser virtually but find ways to make it fun and interactive. 

The night opened with a private mixology session with Nemo (a virtual bartender) guiding our sponsors on how make a traditional Derby-style mint julep cocktail.  Each sponsor received a customized wooden box filled with all things Derby-related and D-E branded.  All the ingredients for making the perfect mint julep cocktail were included (even a fresh mint plant). Participants received a package containing two D-E branded mint julep cups, a recipe card and horseshoe chocolates.  As we approached the starting gate to our event, our hosts and guest speakers (both current D-E parents) Tom Rinaldi (Emmy winning Fox Sports Reporter) and Roseann Todd (Auctioneer) greeted the guests and set the tone for the evening.  Even Head of School Dr. Rodney De Jarnett and his wife Annette were part of the ‘virtual’ party paddock, dressed in-theme with mint juleps in hand!

Heartwarming testimonials were presented by Noah Goldmann ’17, Julia Schneider ’08 and Nasreen Watson P ‘19, each detailing the importance of and personal impact from their receiving support from D-E financial aid.  To add to the excitement of the evening, all were invited to compete in a virtual horseracing experience. Participants were given play money for the races, but each had the ability to enhance their horse by making a small donation directly for the D-E Financial Aid program. The added donation allowed horses to have extra training or the ability to sabotage other horses which would increase your chances of winning.  With the Zoom unmuted for the races, it was especially fun to hear families cheering for their horse!

Throughout the night our hosts reminded all to visit our event website and explore the wonderful auction items.  Thanks to many alumni, we had incredible items to offer such a vacation home in Colorado, a year of fresh flowers delivered to your door each month, restaurant gift cards and keeping right in theme, attend a special farm tour and learn about horsemanship.  Even though we were unable to be together in person, it was so nice to see so many faces of those we miss!

With the help of our wonderful Event Co-Chairs (Fabe Gallo and Maral Jebejian), Production Specialist (Saba Nwankpah), Assistant Director of Advancement (Beverley Mac Keen) and the entire Bulldog Bash Committee, the evening was like no other in the history of D-E. So far, we have raised $280,000+ which will benefit Financial Aid.