On September 23, 2024, Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) hosted its annual Scholarship Gala at The Springs in Arlington, Texas. The evening, themed "An Evening with Our Philosophers," and hosted by Alumni/Professor Gabriel Perea and his wife, Jessica Perea, united alumni, donors, and community supporters to celebrate academic excellence and the transformative power of scholarships.

The gala highlighted the amazing opportunities provided through SWAU’s Honors Program, where students are encouraged not only to excel academically but also to explore their passions. Each honors student undertakes an in-depth research project on a topic of their choosing, fostering critical thinking and preparing them for successful careers or further education.

A particularly inspiring moment came when Andrea Cardenas, an alumna and first-generation college graduate, shared her story. With the support of scholarships and dedication in her student job, Andrea expressed her deep gratitude: "If it weren't for the generosity of donors, I would not have had the opportunity to be part of the honors program or achieve my career goals so quickly."

The evening’s program also included moving performances by the Southwestern Chamber Orchestra String Quartet, the University Singers, renowned pianist and faculty member Dr. Jonathan Mamora, and Music Department Chair Jonathan E.L. Wall. Their performances enhanced the uplifting atmosphere, celebrating the success of the evening's fundraising efforts.

With a total of $208,955 raised, the gala surpassed all expectations. This record-breaking achievement was made possible by a $100,000 matching gift from AdventHealth, which played a crucial role in reaching the event’s milestone.

A special announcement was made to establish the Honors Program Chair Endowment, which is dedicated to honoring Dr. Sicher and Dr. Woolley for their outstanding work in building the honors program. This endowment will provide financial support to high-achieving students, further empowering them to pursue their academic and professional goals.
Southwestern Adventist University continues to invite community support for its scholarship-building initiatives, as together, we can create more opportunities for students to thrive and succeed.

We extend our deepest thanks to the sponsors whose generosity made this event possible:

Honors Matching Gift Sponsor:
AdventHealth

Title Sponsor:
Lane & Renee Sensabaugh

Concert Sponsor:
Elqui Valley Foundation

Platinum Sponsors:
Civitas Senior Living
SW Union of Seventh-day Adventists

Gold Sponsors:
Arkansas-Louisiana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Texas Health Huguley Hospital
Texico Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

Silver Sponsors:
Bainum Foundation
Oklahoma Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Todd & Melinda Goodman
Tony & Bethany Seery

Bronze Sponsors:
7C's Investments
Cleburne Ford
Keene Church
Pinnacle Bank
SW Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

With heartfelt gratitude, we celebrate this milestone and look forward to the opportunities it will create for future SWAU students.