First Annual RSU Scholarship Auction Slated for April 23

The First Annual Rogers State University Scholarship Auction is poised to become the premier social and philanthropic event in the Claremore area, providing attendees with the opportunity to bid on a wide variety of unique live and silent auction items and win a new Ford Mustang.

“Cruisin’ for Scholarships” is the name of the 1950s-themed auction and dinner, which will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, at the Claremore Expo Center. The cost is $15 per person or $25 per couple. All proceeds from the event, sponsored by the RSU Foundation, will provide scholarships for RSU students.

“This promises to be one of the most exciting dinner and fundraising events in the Claremore area,” said Dr. Danette Boyle, RSU vice president for development. “Most importantly, we will be raising much-needed scholarship funds for deserving students.”

More than 500 guests are expected to attend the event in its first year, Boyle said. Guests may bid on more than 200 unique silent auction items and up to 50 live auction items at the event, including cowhide furniture, signed historic books, OU football tickets, rounds of golf at some of the state’s leading courses and more.

Auction items, which may include art, historic mementos, or personal services such as day spa packages or dinners for two, may be donated to the RSU Foundation for the auction. Items can be small or large, ranging from homemade crafts and food items to travel packages. Those interested in making tax-deductible contributions to the auction may call the foundation at (918) 343-7773.

A highlight of the evening will be a drawing for a 2005 Ford Mustang, provided by Steve Kissee of Jack Kissee Ford in Claremore. The RSU Foundation will sell 300 tickets at $100 each for an opportunity to win the Mustang. Currently, 50 tickets have been sold. To purchase a ticket, call the RSU Foundation. The winner will be announced at the auction.

The auction also will feature a full dinner and drinks provided by the RSU catering service, included in the cost of attending the event.

The RSU Scholarship Auction Committee is planning the evening’s festivities. Members of the committee include Sherry Alexander, Connie Beair, Danette Boyle, Leann Burger, John Cary, Jim Cochran, Alaine Dye, Kimberly Earickson, Tonni Harrald, Jim Harrison, Michael Henry, Dana Lamb, Richard Lundy, Bob McKinney, Jack Spinks, Janice Trickett, Carlene Webber and Kim Webber.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the RSU Foundation at (918) 343-7773.