Miami Hamilton to host 40th anniversary gala

August 20, 2008

With a ‘Wizard of Oz’ theme complete with ruby-slipper candleholders, Emerald City décor and, of course, a yellow-brick road, Miami University Hamilton will host a 40th Anniversary Ruby Scholarship Gala September 6 in the Harry T. Wilks Conference Center.

Proceeds from this milestone event will benefit need-based scholarships exclusively for Miami Hamilton students.

“Historically, the ruby is associated with a 40th wedding anniversary. It’s one of the four precious stones (along with sapphire, emerald, and diamond). We’re pulling out all the stops in celebration of 40 years of partnership with the greater Hamilton community,” said Dr. Michael Carrafiello, Miami Hamilton Associate Dean and event coordinator. “At the same time, we look to the future with great anticipation as the next 40 years hold great promise for Miami Hamilton.”

The Ruby Scholarship Gala begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and an imaginative array of passed appetizers in the Wilks atrium. Dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. with entertainment to follow.

“We’re hoping for a big turnout. For 40 years, Miami Hamilton’s faculty, staff, and students have enjoyed meaningful and lasting partnerships with our surrounding communities. We are committed to building on those partnerships and establishing new ones -- now and in the years to come,” Carrafiello said.

More than 50 percent of Miami Hamilton students receive financial aid, and the campus has many non-traditional and first-generation college students who are highly motivated to learn and improve their lots in life.

Many of them need all the help they can get.

“I was a first-generation college student myself … as was Dr. Hall, among others on our excellent faculty and staff. So we are especially committed to the gala, and we extend a special invitation to all first-generation college students to join us in supporting MUH scholarships so that others can benefit from higher education,” Carrafiello said.

The cost is $100 per plate. Business attire is requested. To reserve tickets, or otherwise contribute to the MUH need-based scholarship fund if you cannot attend the gala, please contact Carla Ledford, 785-3020, ledforcd@muohio.edu.

In related news, the campus will host a 40th anniversary community picnic from 3-5 p.m. Sunday, September 7, on the Schwarm Hall patio. This event is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted toward the student scholarship fund. Activities will include the much-anticipated opening of the time capsule, which was placed behind a cornerstone in Mosler Hall during construction of the building.

For a list of other 40th anniversary events on campus and at Miami Hamilton Downtown this fall, go to www.ham.muohio.edu/anniversary/calendar.htm.