TURLOCK – The October 25 California State University, Stanislaus 50th Anniversary Inaugural Gala was a rousing success.
During a day that featured a presentation of an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts Degree to actor, director, and musician Gary Sinise for his many accomplishments in the entertainment industry, an elegant dinner attended by some 200 people, and a fun-filled concert by Sinise and his “Lieutenant Dan Band,” CSU Stanislaus had plenty of reasons to celebrate. The sold-out dinner raised $225,000 that will benefit a number of CSU Stanislaus programs.
“It was a memorable day for California State University, Stanislaus as we embark on a series of special programs to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the University,” President Hamid Shirvani said. “We are extremely grateful to all who so generously participated in helping to make the day so successful.”
Founded in 1957, CSU Stanislaus is planning a series of special events heading into the 50th anniversary of the startup of the University at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in 1960. CSU Stanislaus moved to its current location in 1965. The University plans to have another gala next year and then a major event in fall 2010 to celebrate its 50th year.
California State University Trustees Chair Jeffrey L. Bleich and CSU Trustees Peter Mehas and Bob Linscheid participated in the festivities. Bleich joined President Shirvani on Saturday afternoon to present the Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts Degree to Sinise.
Inaugural Gala sponsors included Associated Feed & Supply, Dianne Gagos, Sharon Naraghi, William and Carol Ahlem and Sabino Ahlem Herrera, D.V.M, Hilmar Cheese Company, Gallo Family Vineyards, PMZ Real Estate/Liberty Property Management, H. Naraghi Farms, Dr. and Mrs. Amin Ashrafzadeh and McHenryLASIK.com, Bright Family Foundation, Monte Vista Crossings, CSU Summer Arts, Michael Russel, Morgan Stanley, Perez Brothers, Triebsch & Frampton, Kaiser Permanente, Doctors Medical Center, Donna Pierce, County Bank, First Windsor Capital, Inc., Jane Evans Vilas, Associated Students and University Student Union, and Turlock Chamber of Commerce/Convention & Visitors Bureau.
