On April 27, South Suburban College (SSC) alumni, faculty members, and donors gathered at the beautiful Odyssey Country Club in Tinley Park, Illinois for the school’s annual Foundation Gala. This year’s event marked the series’ return from its pandemic-induced hiatus. The evening's theme was 'Hollywood Awards: A Black and White Affair – A Night of Dreams, Success, and Scholarships.' Attendees dressed in their red carpet best enjoyed a delicious dinner, a silent auction, live music, and dancing. Actor, poet, comedian, and native of the South Suburbs LaRoyce Hawkins was the night’s featured keynote speaker.
Dr. Lynette Stokes, president of SSC, was also one of the speakers at the event. Stokes ascended to the presidency in 2018, making her the first woman in SSC history to hold the position. She explained why she believes the Foundation Gala is so important.
“The gala always provides us with a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, to celebrate, and, most importantly, to give back to our educational communities,” Stokes said. “The contributions made tonight will directly impact our mission to support education and empowerment in the community.”
This year’s gala featured quite a few famous faces. Ray Cortopassi, WGN Evening News Anchor and an SSC alumnus, served as the event’s official host. Several politicians were present as well, including Mayor of Lynwood Jada Curry, Mayor of Hazel Crest Vernard L. Alsberry Jr., and 10th District Illinois State Representative Jawaharial William.
Dr. Kellie C. Martin, executive director of public relations and resource development at SSC explained why she takes pleasure in attending the Foundation Gala.
“I enjoy attending the gala because of what it stands for,” Martin said. “It represents our commitment to giving back. I was able to get a terminal degree and I want to reach back and help others who know that they want to do the same or are discovering what they want to do in life. Helping others along is very meaningful to me.”
Hawkins, who is best known for playing Officer Kevin Atwater on the television drama “Chicago P.D.,” described how his experiences at SSC taught him a valuable life lesson.
“During the late 2000s, I squandered every dollar I made from my first major motion picture,” Hawkins said. “I started working at SSC as a janitor. In my mind, I should have been on a set instead of setting up classrooms. It would take time and patience for me to understand that I was having a direct impact on the learning environment of the young minds at SSC. If I didn’t clean the classrooms, wipe off the chalkboards, synchronize the seating, and empty the pencil sharpeners, then how could the young minds be as successful as possible? Working as a custodial engineer at SSC was probably the most significant opportunity I’ve had in all my 35 years of life.”
Martin shared what she hoped the attendees’ main takeaway from the event would be.
“Our hope is that the attendees leave tonight’s gala with a sense of community,” Martin said. “SSC is more than just an education institution. We are a strong community and we're committed to lifelong learning for the members of our community. I hope that everyone feels welcome, has a good time, and walks away from the event knowing that they were part of something meaningful.”
Live music was supplied by Rhonda High Brown & Pieces, who performed “My Girl” by the Temptations along with covers of many other classic tunes. Attendees enjoyed the open bar and took many pictures in front of an elaborate photo backdrop. The SSC Foundation Gala continued well into the evening, as old friends reunited and new connections were made.
If you would like to learn more information about South Suburban College, please visit www.ssc.edu.
