Bellevue College Foundation Raises Nearly $280,000 for Scholarships, Programs

Bellevue College students and programs will get a nearly $280,000 boost after Wednesday's Bellevue College Foundation fundraising luncheon, the college announced.

More than 700 guests attended the college’s 13th Annual “Become Exceptional” Luncheon at the Meydenbauer Center in downtown Bellevue, according to a press release from Bellevue College.

The keynote address was delivered by Ronan Farrow, special advisor to the U.S. Secretary of State for Global Youth Issues and director of the State Department’s Global Youth Issues office. Farrow is also the son of actor and director Woody Allen and actress Mia Farrow.

Several Bellevue College students in difficult financial circumstances also spoke about how scholarships, made possible by generous donors, enabled them to stay in school and flourish in their classes, according to a press release.

The average fundraiser gift increased 50 percent over last year, according to a press release. The funds will enable the Bellevue College Foundation to continue providing academic and need-based scholarships, as well as develop programs that support quality education and learning opportunities for all BC students, according to the press release.

“On behalf of everyone at the college and the Foundation, we sincerely thank all those who gave so generously, making this year’s luncheon a huge success. The support we received will have a tangible and beneficial impact by helping many deserving students complete their education, giving them a shot at better-paying jobs and a better quality of life for themselves and their families,” said Bill Kent, Foundation president and an executive with Mortenson Construction, in a prepared statement.

The luncheon was underwritten by a roster of 30 businesses, led by primary corporate sponsor Columbia Athletic Clubs. The gift allowed every dollar given by guests to support Bellevue College students, according to a press release.

Directed by a board of 30 community volunteers, the Bellevue College Foundation is a non-profit organization that receives and manages individual and corporate support on behalf of Bellevue College. It awards more than $100,000 annually in merit- and need-based scholarships and, since its inception in 1978, has raised more than $20 million to support scholarships and program enhancements at the college.

Information from .