Northampton Community College Food & Wine Gala Raises over $300,000 for Student Scholarships

Donors, sponsors, and community members came together on May 31 to support NCC students for an unforgettable evening at the college’s Bethlehem campus

The 2024 Northampton Community College (NCC) Food & Wine Gala was an outstanding success, raising over $300,000 for student scholarships. Held at the Bethlehem campus on a picturesque May evening, the event brought together donors, sponsors, and community members in a shared mission to support NCC students.

The gala, the college’s largest fundraising event of the year, was headlined by Chris Cree, Master of Wine and founder of Cree Wine Company. Ashley Russo, president of ASR Media Productions, served as the Master of Ceremonies. The night featured a rich blend of culinary delights and fine wines, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees.

David A. Ruth, Ph.D., president of NCC, opened the evening with heartfelt remarks, expressing gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. “Your generosity ensures that our students have the resources they need to pursue their dreams,” he said. “Together, we are making a profound impact on their lives and our community.” Ruth’s words resonated deeply, highlighting the vital role that scholarships play in providing educational opportunities for students in need.

One of the evening’s highlights was Cree, who shared his extensive knowledge on the wine selection as well as personal anecdotes that were both endearing and engaging. As one of only 56 Masters of Wine in the country (and only 418 in the world), Cree’s expertise elevated the evening’s wine pairings. Each dinner course was meticulously matched with a selection of exquisite wines, enhancing the culinary experience.

Local auctioneer Tony Luna and Russo conducted the live auction. Auction items included a private food and wine experience and round-trip limousine service for eight at Cree Wine Company; a week at one of Avalon, N.J.’s most sought-after properties; and the opportunity for guests to bid directly on scholarships to impact the lives of NCC students.

Scholarship recipients shared moving testimonials via video of how the financial support they received has transformed their lives. Their stories served as powerful reminders of the impact of the community’s generosity. Over 50% of NCC’s degree-seeking students are PELL eligible, with many living below the poverty line. Scholarships are crucial in bridging the financial gap, allowing these students to focus on their education without taking on additional financial burden.

The gala’s success was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the organizing committee, co-chaired by Mike Molewski and Anthony Onorata. Their leadership, along with the tireless efforts of volunteers and staff, ensured that every detail of the event was executed flawlessly. Molewski has been instrumental in the gala’s evolution from a small festival to one of the Lehigh Valley’s signature events, having raised over $2.8 million for scholarships to date.

As the evening concluded with dessert and live music by The Weekenders, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment and optimism. The funds raised will provide countless students with the opportunity to pursue their education, underscoring the transformative power of community support. This year’s gala not only celebrated culinary excellence and fine wine but also reaffirmed the college community’s collective commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

Click here to see the full gallery of photos from the event.