Pass With Flying Colors Gala Raises Over $90,000 for Students

Pass With Flying Colors, one of Chicago’s only 8-year college access and persistence programs, raised $91,300 at its ninth annual College Dreams Gala last month. Chaired by the PWFC College Dreams committee, the College Dreams Gala supports scholarships and programming for its students throughout the academic year.

Founded in 2010 by Kenny and Paula Goldman, PWFC works with Chicago's underserved, first-generation students to ensure their college and career success. From ninth grade through college graduation, PWFC student scholars at CICS Northtown Academy receive high-touch support, experiential learning opportunities, and one-on-one guidance through the college application and admissions process. Many of these programs are funded in part by the College Dreams Gala.

“Since 2010, we’ve provided college and career guidance to over 150 first-generation students who go on to receive college scholarship offers, pursue meaningful career paths, and stand out as leaders in their communities," said Jessica Paulsen, Executive Director of PWFC.

The College Dreams Gala began with a cocktail hour and entertainment by guitarist Paolo Apuli, and was followed by a paddle raise, silent auction, and other unique fundraising activities including “Bubbles and Baubles” by Sara Blaine jewelry, where guests were able to donate to PWFC in exchange for a piece of high-quality jewelry draped around a glass of champagne. The night of celebration ended with a raffle, dancing, and entertainment from FINAL SAY.

Throughout the evening, 150 board members, students, staff, and supporters were able to hear from fellow members of the PWFC community including Executive Director Jessica Paulsen, Founder Kenny Goldman, and PWFC Scholar Travon Toussaint.

“Pass With Flying Colors helped me transition through high school and learn about the different college majors,” Toussaint said. “While I’m still deciding where I’ll attend college next year, I’d like to combine my creativity and my interest in technology to one day become a Chief Technology Officer in the film industry."

This year’s gala took place at the Hilton Orrington hotel in Evanston, Illinois, and was made possible by sponsors including the First Bank of Chicago, Ventas, Inc., First American Bank, GCG Financial, Patzik, Frank & Samotny, HLM Capital Management Group, RSM, Cross Country Mortgage, Factor Law, and Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants.

For more information please contact jpaulsen@passwithflyingcolors.org.