MNU gala breaks fundraising record

by | 16 Apr 2015

MidAmerica Nazarene University’s fourth annual President’s Honors raised a record $575,000 for student scholarships, bringing the event's four-year total to more than $1.9 million. The event also honored individuals to whom the very existence of the university is owed. President David Spittal bestowed the Lifetime Achievement Award upon Paul and Connie Cunningham and remembered the late Founding First Lady Marge Smith with a special tribute during the April 10 event.

A tribute video wove together clips of General Superintendent Emeritus Paul G. Cunningham's preaching, tributes, and memories from friends and loved ones, and the history of both the couple’s contributions to ministry and MNU. Additional accolades for the Cunninghams were announced, including the installation of a plaque on Legacy Circle, the digitization of many of Paul’s sermons to be made available on MNU’s new Institutional Repository, and an original painting titled Purposeful Lives by Nazarene artist Brian Timmer. The painting is part of a three-part work of art by Timmer, the other two of which, titled Pioneering Spirit and Passion to Serve, were auctioned at the event for $40,000.

“Connie accepted on behalf of the couple,” said Pete Brumbaugh, director of annual programs. “Then Paul, with his patented comical timing, shared a joke and a heartfelt thank you. Everyone was standing in honor during this whole time.”

Brumbaugh added that many eyes were bright with tears as well.

“The university was honored to recognize this outstanding couple who have defined pioneer spirit and demonstrated an unshakable faith in their Lord,” Spittal said.

Another highlight of the evening was a tribute to Marge Smith, who passed away March 15. During his address, Spittal held a moment of silence to remember both Smith and her late husband, Founding President R. Curtis Smith. Later during the auction, a football signed by Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo, secured by Smith for the event, was sold. The Smith family donated a Scott Stearman sculpture that graced her home. Together, these items brought $9,000 for student scholarships.

Entertainment for the evening included MNU’s Symphonic Choir and instrumentals by several students. Chad (Class of 1995) and Jeannie (Deischer, Class of 1996) Williams served as honorary co-chairs and emcees for the evening.

“We are grateful to the Williams for their leadership and generosity,” said Jon North, vice president for University Advancement. “Chad and Jeannie were naturals at keeping the spirit of giving high throughout the event.”