Submitted photo

Local boosters and businesses showcased their support for College of the Redwoods athletics at this month’s annual fundraising dinner and auction.

A record $275,000 was raised on the night, with that figure expected to rise further thanks to funds still coming in, according to event organizers.

The 21st annual dinner and auction was held on campus on Aug. 14.

This year’s event was attended by 460 community members and hosted by over 200 student-athletes, who assisted in running the event. 

Blue Lake Casino Hotel returned as the event’s title sponsor.

But perhaps most impressive of all was the number of local businesses that supported the big night.

“We had over 300 businesses, individuals, and families donate to this year’s event,” said Marty Coelho, Executive Director for College Advancement and the CR Foundation. “The quality of what was donated was remarkable. This support from our community is greatly appreciated.”

Interim CR Athletic Director Ryan Bisio echoed the sentiment.

“We continue to be amazed and humbled by the outpouring of support for this event,” Bisio said. “It is so critical that we connect with our community and have our student-athletes see first-hand how fortunate they are to have their support. 

“In return, we love hearing how happy our community supporters are in being able to personally interact with the athletes during the evening.”

The evening highlighted the launch of CR’s first-ever men’s and women’s rodeo teams, which will begin competition this fall and are led by coaches Kelly and Gianna O’Day, as well as honoring CR legend Hannah Hartwell, who was a state champ in cross country and track and field and has gone on to enjoy a stellar career at NCAA Division II Fort Lewis College, where she was a national medalist.

The annual fundraiser also honored CR basketball and baseball alumnus Bob Robertson and recognized Ryan Hosek, a former CR golfer who turned pro and is a CR community ambassador.

“We are very grateful for the continued support from our community, alumni, and donors,” CR President and Superintendent of College of the Redwoods Keith Flamer said. “Their contribution to CR athletics underscores our dedication to academic and athletic excellence. Every contribution has a profound and lasting impact on our student-athletes and our college.”