Emerald Ball 2014 proves fun, high-energy success

On Oct. 25, the NSU Alumni Association hosted its formal, green tie gala, the Emerald Ball. The theme of the event, Under the Big Top, accompanied this years Homecoming theme, The Greatest Show on Earth.

Guests enjoyed fine dining, Outstanding Alumni accolades, live and silent auctions, a grand-prize emerald jewelry giveaway, and a special live acoustic performance by six-time Grammy award winner and NSU alumna, Carrie Underwood.

Although Emerald Ball has been in existence for the last 17 years, the event has only been specifically promoted as a benefit to raise money for student scholarships for the last two years.According to President Steve Turner, this benefit aligns with NSUs top private funding priority.

Total proceeds for the event were approximately $39,000, with roughly $24,000 coming from corporate donations and ticket sales, and the remaining amount coming from the live and silent auction proceeds.

By all measures, the event was an overwhelming success, Daniel Johnson, director of Alumni Services said.In terms of attendance, corporate support, and most importantly, dollars raised, Emerald Ball 2014 set the bar a whole new level.

In 2013, benefits such as Emerald Ball along with private donations, allowed for nearly $725,000 to be awarded through 902 scholarships to deserving NSU students.

Chosen by the NSU Alumni Associations Board of Directors, this years Distinguished Alumnus and Outstanding Young Alumnus, include Distinguished Alumni, Dr. William Bill Pierce, 76, President of Baptist Village Communities, and Will Thomas, 97, an award-winning author.The honoree for Outstanding Young Alumnus is Sarah Vann, 02, a Milken Educator Award winner.

This year, President Turner also provided the opportunity for 130 current students to have the opportunity to win tickets to attend Underwoods performance for free. Total attendance for the event was 563 people, including 440 Emerald Ball patrons and 123 students, NSU staff and volunteers.