The Southeastern Foundation and the Office of University Advancement work together to ensure the annual “Chefs Evening” is a success.

The 35th annual “Chefs Evening” fundraiser will be held on Sunday, March 31 from 5:30-8 p.m in the Student Union Ballroom.

Lisa Patti, donor relations coordinator, shared that the community can enjoy delicious food items prepared by local chefs during the evening.

“It’s pretty much like a camaraderie,” expressed Patti. “A group of people can just come together for fellowship. We also have a silent auction and live auction that people can bid on. It’s a tradition for people to come and enjoy.”

Patti discussed the importance of conducting the fundraiser.

“The event is held to fundraise for scholarships and academic programs,” said Patti. “This is all for the university. So, all the money we raise is given back to Southeastern. The most rewarding aspect is being able to raise enough to help for scholarships to give back to the students as they are the most important.”

Along with “Chefs Evening,” people can purchase a ticket for the “President’s Toast.”

“You can visit with the president, and we offer wine and hors d’oeuvres,” stated Patti. “The restaurant One Thirteen are the ones supplying the food for the function.”

According to Ashlin Nicosia, interim development coordinator, the process to make the event successful requires communication skills.

“The biggest thing that often gets lost in the shuffle is communication,” commented Nicosia. “While Lisa and I are the two leading heads, there are so many other people that are involved in the event. Communication is so important as it helps us keep track of our master task list that we have to go by and follow up.”

In order to promote “Chefs Evening” to the community, the Southeastern Foundation and university advancement incorporate a variety of outlets for outreach purposes.

“We use social media and media sponsors,” stated Nicosia. “Northshore broadcasting helps us do five radio shows within the months leading up to the event. Lamar sets us up with billboard space. We also have board members who also go out and promote as well.”

A general admission ticket is $75 for “Chefs Evening,” $100 for the “President’s Toast” and $150 for both. To purchase a ticket, call 985-549-2239, or go to southeastern.edu/chefsevening.