Prestigious donors and alumni were honored and entertained at the annual Mines Century Society Dinner; the largest donor event of the year. Lockridge Arena was elaborately decorated to embody the night’s theme of water. Alumni and students discussed the importance of water in engineering over an elegant meal. Awards were given during the event to alumni and faculty who exhibit exceptional kindness and contribution to the Colorado School of Mines. Awards were given for top young alumni, top faculty members and outstanding philanthropists. To conclude the evening, a surprise announcement followed the dinner and was the highlight of the evening.
The event included performances from the Mines Interpretive Dance Team, presentations recapping recent campus changes, and an announcement regarding an even newer change – the Clear Creek Athletic Complex Initiative. Known as CCACI, this program will include improvements to the current Campbell Football Field and outdoor training center. Changes will convert the field into a state of the art stadium dedicated to legendary CSM alumni, All-American athlete, Mines football coach, and athletic director, Marv Kay.
Until Friday, this announcement was a tightly held secret among high profile members of the school. When the moment of announcement did come, the entire gym erupted with full-hearted applause and two rounds of standing ovation. Kay is legendary on campus, due to his lifetime of devotion to the school, participation in athletic programs, and his genuine, warm attitude.
Following the special announcement was a recitation of the Mines’ fight song, uniting the vast range of current students and past alumni in attendance. Annual donor and alumni, Gary Gantner said, “There is a good energy surrounding Mines. The facilities are keeping up with the times, which is great to see.”Gantner also explained why he donates saying, “I want to remain a part of the Mines network. The camaraderie and friendships last a lifetime. Additionally, the donations are directed by engineering and leadership, so I can be sure my contributions end up where they are needed.”
The Mines Century Society is a group of esteemed donors who demonstrate a lifetime of generosity to the school and the student experience. There are varying levels of donation, from Copper to Platinum and more. Private donations from members like these allow new additions to campus, such as the W. Lloyd Wright Wellness Center and Marquez Hall. The entire spectrum of donation levels can be seen on the Donor Wall on the second level of the student center.
The Mines Century Society Dinner embodies the school’s dedication to enhancing the student experience, which will continue well into the future with new endeavors.
