The Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation honored alumni, educators, and community boosters at its fifth annual Gala on August 23.
During the Gala, eight individuals and one community organization were inducted into the Hall of Fame. This year’s inductees include:
• Distinguished alumni — Lt. Jennifer Malandra (Rubin), 2006; Major Gen. Peter Gersten, 1984; Gilbert Willett, 1982.
• Legendary educators — Ann Danner, Jean Brown, Michael Logan (posthumous).
• Community booster — Dr. Jeffry and Lisa Strohmyer, and Optimist Club of Papillion-La Vista.
The event was held at Embassy Suites La Vista. A cocktail hour and silent auction began at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m. In celebration of the Gala’s fifth anniversary, guests also enjoyed a special performance by Broadway star and Papillion-La Vista alum, Merle Dandridge, and students from the district. Proceeds from Gala 2014 will support the Elementary Arts Program and additional programs benefiting students and teachers in the Papillion-La Vista School District.
The Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation’s mission is connecting a caring community to great schools. The Foundation strives to enhance educational opportunities for the students of the Papillion-La Vista School District by offering the opportunity to participate in activities and take advantage of programs that would not otherwise be possible. For more information about the Papillion-La Vista Schools Foundation, visit www.plvschoolsfoundation.org.