The college foundation’s Celebration of Philanthropy fundraiser for student scholarships is set for Thursday, Feb. 21.
Rowan College at Burlington County’s first 50th anniversary event is the Celebration of Philanthropy, which is the college Foundation’s principal fundraiser for student scholarships, on Thursday, Feb. 21 at The Merion in Cinnaminson.
This year’s event will have a will have a golden anniversary theme and feature Mark Baiada, founder of BAYADA Home Health Care, as keynote speaker.
Baiada recently made headlines for gifting $20 million dollars of his personal funds to employees in all 22 states where BAYADA operates. The gifts are part of the firm’s transition to nonprofit status and a way to show gratitude to employees.
“This year’s theme ‘From humble beginnings to setting the gold standard for the future,’ epitomizes RCBC’s transformation over 50 years and the journey of our students, many of whom are assisted by Foundation scholarships,” RCBC Foundation Chair Danielle Lucas said. “This year, we hope to inspire others to pay it forward as Mark Baiada has and give the gift of education to deserving RCBC students.”
RCBC Foundation scholarship recipient and mom to six girls, Lin Rubright, will talk about the impact the college and Foundation have had on her family.
Rubright, of Medford, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology through the 3+1 program at RCBC. She wants to continue her education by obtaining her master’s and doctorate and ultimately, would like to do research or clinical work.
RCBC alumna Cassadie Hynd, who was the first in her family to graduate college, will also speak at the event. In 2017, she was voted to serve as the RCBC Alumni Trustee, marking the first time a 3+1 student was appointed to the board. She benefited from the RCBC Foundation’s Dress for Success program that prepares soon-to-be graduates for the workforce by providing them with a professional wardrobe and career workshops. Hynd, of Cinnaminson, is also pursuing a 3+1 psychology degree, which she will complete in May. She plans to become a certified yoga instructor and return to RCBC to earn a Chemical Dependency Associate credential so she can continue toward her goal of becoming a counselor.
“As the college enters its 50th year and we reflect on our past, it is clear that RCBC is transforming the future of higher education by providing students with a clear and affordable path to a valuable degree,” RCBC President Dr. Michael Cioce said. “Through the groundbreaking 3+1 program with Rowan University, generous RCBC Foundation donors, and the support of our county Freeholders and both the Foundation and College’s Board of Trustees, RCBC is leveling the playing field for anyone who wants to transform their future through education.”
Tickets to the Celebration of Philanthropy are available at rcbc.edu/foundation. There are special ticket prices for RCBC alumni and college employees.
