Stockton to honor retiring President Harvey Kesselman at Scholarship Benefit Gala

Provided/From left, Beverly Vaughn, Haashim Smith-Johnson and Shedia Laguer enjoy Stockton's 2022 Scholarship Benefit Gala.

ATLANTIC CITY - The Stockton University Foundation's annual Scholarship Benefit Gala returns to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22, and celebrates retiring President Harvey Kesselman.

The continued generosity of our sponsors and supporters makes it possible for countless Stockton students to pursue a college education, said Dan Nugent, vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the Stockton University Foundation. We are particularly excited to celebrate Dr. Kesselman at this year's event and honor his unwavering commitment to Stockton's students-first mission over the last five decades.

Building on Stockton's tradition of featuring outstanding live entertainment, guests can expect to pack the dance floor while enjoying the captivating music and energy of Center Stage Soul and a special performance by the Stockton Music Union.

The event will also feature a number of unique touches highlighting Stockton's hands-on academic programs and commitment to the environment, including:

• Growing Sustainability Enjoy harvested greens and vegetables from Stockton's Sustainable Farm.


• Interactive GeoDome Immerse yourself in an interactive celestial experience led by Stockton students.


• Shucking for Good Enjoy New Jersey-farmed oysters in our raw bar while discovering the importance of oyster shell restoration.


• The Science of Ice Cream Interact with professors and students as they share the science behind making ice cream.


• Wild About Wine Taste and discover New Jersey wine with students in Stockton's Wine Fundamentals class.

The gala features a top-shelf cocktail reception, carving stations, raw bar, pasta station, vegan station and decadent desserts. Guests will also enjoy Stockton-inspired cocktails, including an old fashioned made with Stockton maple syrup. Between dancing and dining, guests can stop by a photo booth, try and earn cash from the 50/50 raffle and much more.

Net proceeds benefit scholarships for Stockton University students. Since its founding, the event has raised more than $5 million.

Many businesses and individuals have signed on to support the gala including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 351, a leading sponsor for 15 years. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is the event's top sponsor.

We are proud to once again partner with Stockton University to host and sponsor this tremendous event, said George Goldhoff, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. It is an honor to give back to our community and to show our support for education and Stockton students.

Other top sponsors include: AC Devco; AtlantiCare; Azeez Foundation; Barberio & McClelland Financial Services; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa; Caesars Entertainment; Janice Cambron '79; Chartwells Higher Education; Cooper Levenson, Attorneys at Law; Fox Rothschild LLP; Glenn Insurance Inc.; Dr. Howard and Gayle Gross; Local Union 322 Plumbers & Pipefitters; Marathon Engineering & Environmental Services Inc.; Michelle and H. Paxson Keates; Pennoni; Pepsi; Resorts Casino and Hotel; Rowan University; Salmon Ventures; South Jersey Gas; Stockton University Foundation Board of Directors; Tito's Handmade Vodka; Leo S. Ullman; and Yezzi Associates.

Sponsorship opportunities and tickets, priced at $250 per person, are available at stockton.edu/gala. For more information contact Alicia Trombley '03, associate director of development at 609-652-4861.