LUBBOCK, Texas (News Release) – South Plains College’s 27th annual Scholarship Gala on Feb. 21 brought in over $186,000 for student scholarships.
Hosted by City Bank, the Gala was attended by generous supporters of the College and community members whose contributions continue to benefit SPC students’ lives.
This year’s theme centered around stars and images of the cosmos. Kirk Noles, SPC alumnus and CEO of ad agency EMW Digital in Lubbock, served as the master of ceremonies.
Patrons participated in a live and silent auction as well as raffles that featured unique items donated by Levelland and Lubbock community members, SPC programs, alumni and other supporters. This year’s auction items included a .45-caliber pistol with custom Texas Ranger grips, flowers for a year, admission to SPC’s summer basketball camp, a Deion Sanders collectors’ package, a Consuela travel bag and much more. Patrick and Annette Sykora won the SPC Street Sign Naming, an item donated by the SPC Board of Regents each year.
The live auction raised $41,700, and the silent auction raised $17,860.
“I cannot thank the community enough for coming out and supporting students at South Plains College,” Samantha Goldie, director of SPC Development and Alumni Relations, said. “There was so much energy in the room, and I think it’s because the Scholarship Gala is such a beloved tradition.”
Commercial music students Gage Bunting of Shallowater, Maddie Rose of Newark and Riley Evyn of Petersburg showcased their talents as this year’s featured entertainers. Their performances were backed by SPC alumni, faculty and other students.
The excitement continued with the recognition of SPC’s 2025 Pacesetter Award winner: Odessa native Randy S. Wilson. The College and the SPC Foundation present the Pacesetter Award to benefactors who have provided exemplary support through their philanthropy, service or leadership that makes a difference in the lives of SPC students. Wilson, a former SPC Texan basketball player, has an SPC scholarship endowment in his name that supports current students on the basketball team.
For information on other ways to support SPC students, contact the SPC Development Office at 806-716-2019 or sgoldie@southplainscollege.edu.
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