About This Program

The Run for the Roses Gala is a festive, Kentucky Derby-inspired fundraising event that brings together local businesses, professionals, and community supporters for a fun evening of connection, celebration, and giving back.

Guests will enjoy a Derby watch party, live and silent auctions, great food and drinks, and a lively, social atmosphere. Derby-themed attire adds to the energy and keeps the event fun and approachable. This is a celebration, not a formal sit-down gala.

Why We're Racing for a Cause

Proceeds benefit Georgia Southern University's Division of Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) Free and Low-Cost Community Programs.

Programs focus on:

• Financial literacy
• Creative skills
• Business development

Sponsorship Opportunities

Platinum Sponsor - $1,500

• Opportunity to present your business (2 minutes)
• Logo on all digital and printed advertising
• Logo featured on the Gala website and in the CPE newsletter
• Recognition in a social media post
• Logo displayed at the event
• 8 Winner's Circle tickets and reserved table

Gold Sponsor - $1,000

• Logo on all digital and printed advertising
• Logo featured on the Gala website and in the CPE newsletter
• Recognition in a social media post
• Verbal recognition during the Gala
• Logo displayed at the event
• 5 Winner's Circle tickets

Silver Sponsor - $500 + Silent Auction Item

• Logo on digital advertising
• Recognition in a social media post
• Verbal recognition during the Gala
• Logo displayed at the event
• 2 Winner's Circle tickets

Bronze Sponsor - $250 + Silent Auction Item

• Recognition in a social media post
• Verbal recognition during the Gala
• Logo displayed at the event
• 1 Winner's Circle ticket

Tickets

Starting Gate - $50

• Entrance to the Gala
• Kentucky Derby watch party
• Heavy hors d'oeuvres
• Live and Silent auction
• And more

Winner's Circle - $75

• All Starting Gate benefits plus
• Reserved seating
• Access to Winner's Circle Lounge with open bar
• 10 raffle tickets

Contact

For sponsorship opportunities, donations, or event questions: cpe@georgiasouthern.edu