Gary IN–Over $100,000 for student scholarships was raised on Friday, April 19, at Calumet College of St. Joseph’s 59th Trustees’ Annual Scholarship Gala. Four hundred thirty benefactors attended the event at the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.

President Amy McCormack welcomed guests, highlighting that, “thanks to fundraising efforts like the Gala,” CCSJ remains “the lowest priced comprehensive private institution in the state of Indiana,” enabling the College to address “affordability, access and return on investment concerns.”

Aaron Csok, Vice-President of CCSJ’s student government, thanked those in attendance for their support, noting that through their generosity, “countless students will be able to pursue their aspirations without the burden of overwhelming debt.” He further committed, on behalf of the student body, “to pay it forward. We will strive for excellence in our academic pursuits, become responsible citizens, and one day, join you as supporters of the next generation of CCSJ students.”

Awards were presented celebrating alumni, corporate citizenship and the embodiment of the College’s Mission.

Fran Condo Drozdz received the Brother Gerard Von Hagel Alumni Award, which is given each year to an alumnus or alumnae who exemplifies the values of respect and understanding and the spirit of stewardship and service taught at Calumet College of St. Joseph. Fran, a 1967 graduate, a marathon runner, advocates for the underserved and underrepresented at speaking engagements throughout the country.

Hasse Construction received the Corporate Leadership Award. Having committed themselves to industry excellence and community service for over 100 years, Hasse continues a family legacy of generosity and integrity. “Giving back,” President Bill Hasse said, “emphasizes a role not just as builders, but as active contributors to community enrichment.”

Dr. Edward Williams received the St. Joseph the Worker Award, one of Calumet College of St. Joseph’s highest honors. Honorees are selected by the Board of Trustees based on their embodiment of the values of the College’s patron, St. Joseph. Throughout his career as an entrepreneur and corporate leader, Ed achieved this ideal through a commitment to education and empowerment that has provided opportunity for thousands of Lake County residents. His service is rooted in a deep faith and belief that the “gifts we are given are meant to be shared.”

All proceeds from the Scholarship Gala directly benefit students, offsetting tuition costs for those in financial need, and enabling Calumet College of St. Joseph to provide educational access for underserved populations. As a result, Calumet College of St. Joseph is the most diverse institution of higher education in the state of Indiana.

Calumet College of St. Joseph is a graduate and undergraduate degree granting institution sponsored by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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Please direct media inquiries to:

Brian Lowry
Secretary, CCSJ Charter Authority, LLC
(219) 682-8620
blowry@ccsj.edu