Spirits were soaring high at the National Airline History Museum, the venue for SHINE, the Donnelly College Annual Scholarship Event, on Friday, Sept. 27. More than 450 friends, alumni, students and guests gathered to raise funds for scholarships and to put the spotlight on donors’ generosity and students’ successes. A large majority – nearly 85% - of Donnelly students are the first in their families to attend college, a rate that’s more than twice as high as in institutions nationally. The availability of scholarship dollars make it possible for young people – many who come from low-income families – to pursue the dream of higher education. Proceeds from the event totaled $309,000. Funds raised are earmarked for the John and Florence Horan Memorial Scholarship Fund and Donnelly’s annual scholarship fund. Philanthropist and community advocate Joan Horan was honored at the event. Through the years, Horan has been a champion for the mission of the College. “Joan’s wisdom and leadership has been invaluable to Donnelly. As a board member for nearly a decade, she was always connecting, problem solving, and working hard to sustain our mission and help set our vision for the future,” said Dr. Steve LaNasa, Donnelly president. Horan, formerly a member of the Ursuline Sisters of Paola, Kan., served as the first director of personnel for DST Systems. She continued to work for DST for 39 years, and ultimately served as vice president of human resources. Through her career, Horan has served on numerous boards, supporting the mission of a wide range of community organizations and institutions. "It has been my pleasure to watch Donnelly blossom and grow and broaden its connections not only in the KCK community but the Leavenworth community, the greater KC community, and the international community,” said Horan. The evening included a cocktail hour, live music dinner, tours of the museum aircraft, and a short program. Mike and Melanie Fenske along with Brian and Susan Finucane served as chairs of the event. Phil Kirk, Jr. and Tom McGee, Jr. served as honorary chairs. | Visit the SHINE WEBSITE |