By Allison Hernandez, Staff Writer
Newman University’s annual Party on the Plaza will return Saturday, Sept. 26, with a new “A Day at the Races” theme and several activities planned for guests.
The event will take place on Founders Plaza, beginning with an optional Mass at St. John’s Chapel at 4 p.m. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with drinks, mingling, raffles and a silent auction, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and a live auction at 7:30 p.m.
“Party on the Plaza is an event that helps to raise money for student scholarships,” said Meagan Macdonald, Newman University events coordinator. “It is a fun time to get all of our donors in one place at the same time and create experiences for them to meet the students that their money goes to.”
Macdonald, who started at Newman in June, said she was not involved in choosing this year’s theme but has helped prepare the event around its Kentucky Derby-inspired concept.
“This year we have a new theme. "A Day at the Races" guests will be greeted with a small glass of champagne to add a little wow factor,” Macdonald said. “A lot of the decor has been handmade to save money, but they look amazing. There will be lots of flowers, horses, and other items that are giving the Kentucky Derby theme.”
The theme will continue throughout the evening with a horse race planned for the end of the event. Guests will be able to participate by purchasing raffle tickets based on the horse they think will win. Wait. AN actual horse race? Please explain
"This gives them an activity that will be exciting and something to look forward to.” Macdonald said.
Macdonald said that this year's entertainment will include performances from Newman’s troubadours. Two students will also speak during the event. "It is always exciting for our donors to hear from our students.” Macdonald said.
The silent auction will feature items from Newman community members, including a Jets-painted cornhole set made by Father Tom Welk and items made by the ASC Sisters. Alumni have also donated items for the auction.
The live auction will include several options that have not been offered at previous events. Among them are tickets to the Waste Management Golf Open in Phoenix, Arizona, concert tickets for Ella Langley and the opportunity to purchase a whole pig.
Party on the Plaza typically draws between 380 and 450 people.
“To gather a wide variety of people we sell our tables to a lot of different people, and they fill the tables with their own guests,” Macdonald said. “That creates an opportunity for all different people to meet and get to know people they may not have known.”
All funds raised during the event go toward student scholarships. Macdonald said those scholarships can help students who may otherwise face financial challenges while pursuing college.
“These scholarships can make a real difference in a student’s life by helping remove financial barriers to a college education,” Macdonald said. “They give students the opportunity to attend Newman, pursue their education, and work toward the goals and dreams they have for their future.”
Macdonald said she is looking forward to experiencing the event herself for the first time.
“I am excited to see everyone's hard work into action. I am also very excited to see this new theme and everyone's fun hats and outfits.” Macdonald said.
For those attending Party on the Plaza for the first time, Macdonald said the new theme and activities will offer a different experience from previous years. "There will be lots of exciting things happening and you won't want to miss it.” Macdonald said.
Party on the Plaza will be held Saturday, Sept. 26, on Founders Plaza at Newman University. Guests are encouraged to dress in festive attire, with Derby hats welcomed.
PHOTO: Newman University, courtesy
