MCC Spring Fundraiser Raises Funds in Support of Student Scholarships

For over 20 years, the Middlesex Community College Foundation has hosted the Celebrity Forum, a spring fundraiser that brings well-known personalities to Greater Lowell for the educational and cultural enrichment of area residents. On April 25, MCC will welcome award-winning singer, author and humanitarian Dionne Warwick to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium to raise funds for student scholarships.

“I have received guidance and mentorship from the donors geared toward success in my field of interest,” said Ethan Muriuki, an MCC Electrical Engineering student, of Lowell. “As a result, I am more motivated, guided and focused on my studies in pursuit of the end goal of graduating with a bachelor’s degree. In addition, I have been inspired to share and support others when possible, just like those who have played a part in my receiving a scholarship. I appreciate the financial support in my academic journey.”

“Being a full-time student, the MCC Foundation Merit Award has helped me with some of my financial burdens, making it easier to dedicate more of my time to my school work,” said Samantha Blaney, an MCC Dental Hygiene student, of Billerica. “Receiving this award will continue to encourage me to do my best. By being able to focus more on my program, I will be able to provide my patients with the high-quality care they deserve.”

Warwick earned more than 75 charted hit songs and sold over 100 million records in her 50+ year career. Discovered by Burt Bacharach and Hal David in 1961, she recorded 18 consecutive Top 100 singles, including “Don’t Make Me Over,” Walk on By,” “Say a Little Prayer,” “A House is Not a Home,” “Alfie,” “Heartbreaker,” and “Déjà Vu,” among others.

Known as the artist who “bridged the gap” with her soulful blend of pop, gospel and R&B music that transcended race, culture and musical boundaries, Warwick became first African American solo female artist of her generation to win the prestigious award for Best Contemporary Female Vocalist Performance. She is also the recipient of several coveted and prestigious awards, including the 2017 Marian Anderson Award, the 2019 GRAMMY® Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2023 Kennedy Center Honor in 2023.

She participated in recording the hits “That’s What Friends Are For” and “We Are the World,” and performed at “Live Aid.” Author of the best-selling “My Life As I see It,” Warwick was honored in a 2018 PBS Television Special “Then Came You” and was named a 2019 Ambassador to the Smithsonian Institute’s Year in Music.

A donor reception for sponsors will start off the event at 5 p.m., followed by dinner and the 7:30 p.m. performance. Proceeds from the event provide support for scholarships for MCC students. The annual fundraiser is one of the best ways to support MCC students while having a great night out. The TJX Companies, Inc., proud Presenting Sponsor of MCC’s spring fundraisers since 1999, has returned to support this year’s Celebrity Forum.

“Our annual Celebrity Forum is one of the best ways to support MCC students while enjoying an evening of music and celebration,” said Sherri McCormack, MCC’s Dean of Advancement. “We are thrilled to raise funds in support of MCC students, while providing the Greater Lowell community with what is sure to be an incredible performance by Ms. Warwick. Thank you to all of our generous donors for making this event possible.”

Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/cf24 for more information about sponsorship opportunities or contact McCormack at [email protected] or 978-656-3034. To purchase tickets, contact the Lowell Memorial Auditorium Box Office at 800-657-8774.