BCC Foundation Hosts 8th Annual Bella Italia
Presented by Dinah E. Gore and Myong & Paul Jensen
While the menu included a pinch of “Amore” in the fine Italian delicacies served at The Foundation of Brunswick Community College (BCC) Bella Italia event, the college and more than 235 people in attendance demonstrated a love for and commitment to helping students succeed. Presented by Dinah E. Gore and Myong & Paul Jensen, the event was held on Saturday, February 3, at St. James Community Center and featured culinary delights perfectly paired with Italian wines. All event proceeds benefit student scholarship support.
Dr. Gene Smith, BCC President, and Mike Forte, Brunswick County Commissioner and Foundation Board of Directors member, officiated the event. One of the evening’s highlights was hearing from four Foundation scholarship recipients: Lucas Merriam, Miley Ritchie, Terissa Jordan, and Dimitry Williamson. They each found their way to BCC differently but expressed the same heartfelt thanks for the support they received and the scholarships that helped make their dreams of a college education a reality. Dessert, a live auction, and several raffles rounded out the evening.
“This was my first Bella Italia since taking on the role of Foundation Executive Director, and I could not be more thrilled to be here with so many tremendously kind and generous people,” said Teresa Nelson, The Foundation of BCC Executive Director. “Listening to the students tell their stories and knowing that we’ve helped, even in some small way, is incredibly rewarding. They are why we do what we do, and I’m grateful to be part of that.”
In addition to Presenting Sponsors Dinah Gore and Myong & Paul Jensen, the 2024 Bella Italia was made possible by more than 50 other sponsors and individual contributors. This year’s Platio and Oro Sponsors included Meadowlands Golf Club, Novant Health, Ron & Paula Withrow Foundation, Claire Eisenbise, Mike Forte, Oliver’s on the Cape Fear, and Kent & Debbie Wood.
The evening’s four student speakers were among the 208 students who received scholarships in 2023-2024, with a total award distribution of $241,000. For more event photos, visit The Foundation of BCC Facebook Page.
