For Immediate Release
February 12, 2025

Media Contact: LeAndrea Mikell
Savannah State University
912.675.1414
mikell@savannahstate.edu

Savannah, GA – Savannah State University (SSU) is pleased to announce the 26^th Anniversary Scholarship Gala will be held on Saturday, Apr. 5, at 7 p.m. at the Savannah Convention Center.

The annual community event celebrates local leaders while raising funds to provide financial assistance to SSU students, 90% of whom require financial aid for college. Last year, the Gala was a sold-out event, raising a record-breaking $412,000.

“Our generous past donors are paving a brighter future for our current students,” said SSU Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander. “We are so grateful for the faithful community members who continue to support our historic institution and the promising young students who need their assistance to achieve their dreams.”

This year’s theme is, “An Evening of Elegance: an Orange Carpet Affair.” The evening will feature an Awards of Excellence presentation, honoring a select group of distinguished individuals (alumni and friends of the university) for their contributions to Savannah State and the greater community. Honorees will be recognized for exemplary contributions in the areas of leadership, philanthropy, scholarship, service, arts and entertainment, and entrepreneurship.

SSU’s inaugural gala was held in 1999 under the administration of the university’s 11^th president, Dr. Carlton E. Brown. It was the Hill Hall Gala, a community-wide fundraiser to generate funds for the restoration of Hill Hall. Built in 1901, it is the oldest remaining structure on the campus. From that initial event the Gala has grown to become one of the city’s most celebrated events of the year.

To purchase tickets or a sponsorship packet, visit www.savannahstate.edu/gala

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About SSU:

Established in 1890, Savannah State University is the first public historically black college and university in Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. Students select majors from 30 undergraduate and five graduate programs in four colleges – Business Administration, Education, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, and Sciences and Technology. Learn more by visiting savannahstate.edu.