ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ talent convenes once more to support students at 2024 Flourish presented by RBC
Each year, the ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Foundation is proud to bring together some of the best culinary talents in the city at the annual signature green-tie fundraiser, Flourish presented by RBC. The gala drew over 300 guests to support student learning at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½.
Speciality gourmet bites were presented by returning chefs Hamid Salimian, Tobias MacDonald, Karen Gin, Giulia Nardiello and Ronnie Nugent. Distinguished alumni chef Damon Campbell and guest chef Kishore Rangan joined the roster this year, alongside ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ alum Leah Patitucci, Heat Laliberte, Shahni Arched and Tret Jordan.
Guests could peruse stations on three floors of the Broadway campus, which featured merchandise and artisan jewellery created by ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Jewellery, ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Digital Media Design and ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Fashion students. VR equipment and fully electric mechanical gear were on display courtesy of ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ AutoCollision and ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Culinary Arts, while fauna and flora native to the China Creek area was showcased by ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½'s School of Health and Sciences. Complimentary hand massages were given by ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Esthetics students.
Returning once more as emcee, the charismatic Fred Lee facilitated a fund-a-need appeal during the event, which amounted to over $200,000 raised by the end of the evening. Proceeds from this year’s edition will go towards innovative technology aimed at enhancing the student learning experience.
“On behalf of the ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Foundation, I want to extend our gratitude to sponsors and guests for supporting the 2024 Flourish, presented by RBC," says Moira Gookstetter, Executive Director of ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ Foundation. "We are incredibly grateful for the support of our generous sponsors including RBC, PCI and Lowtide Developments, and Naramata Bench Winery Association. Together, your generous contributions will enable us to purchase new virtual reality equipment. With this technology, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in simulated real-world scenarios, fostering learning in a safe and sustainable manner. Your support is truly transformative!”
The event was also an opportunity to unveil the revitalized ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ brand and identity to the public.
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