Galloway, N.J. – The Stockton University Foundation's annual Scholarship Benefit Gala returns to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. Following the successful virtual gala in 2020 and Benefit on the Boardwalk event in 2021, the Gala is back!

“It’s been two years since we’ve been able to hold our Benefit Gala, which is the Foundation’s largest fundraising event,” said Dan Nugent, chief development officer and executive director of the Stockton Foundation. “It would be an understatement to say we’re thrilled to once again welcome our dedicated donors and friends back to Hard Rock to enjoy an evening that is always a favorite in the region while serving our students.”

Building on Stockton’s tradition of featuring outstanding live entertainment, guests can expect to pack the dance floor while enjoying special performances by the Symphony Gold Jazz Trio, DJ Ahmed Kahn, Stockton a capella group, Stockapella, and a headline show by LIVE AND LET DIE – the Music of Paul McCartney - featuring Tony Kishman.

The event will also feature a number of unique touches highlighting Stockton’s rich history and academic programs. As the University celebrates its first 50 years of teaching, a series of displays will guide visitors through Stockton’s journey from founding to current day. Student research will also be featured, and the evening’s menu will include produce from the campus Sustainability Farm and maple syrup from campus trees. 

Between dancing and enjoying performances, guests can stop by a photo booth, earn cash from the 50/50 raffle and try their luck at an interactive punchboard to win gifts valued up to $1,000. Top prizes include a three-night stay at the ICONA Avalon, a private Atlantic City Tiki Boat party, Phillies tickets, overnight stays in Cape May and other local areas, gift cards and much more.

The evening’s format is one of a top-shelf cocktail reception including gourmet hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, a raw bar and decadent desserts. Guests will also enjoy Stockton-inspired cocktails in the Osprey signature lounge.

Net proceeds benefit scholarships for Stockton University students. Since its founding, the event has raised more than $5 million.

Many businesses and individuals have signed on to support the Gala including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 351, a leading Gala sponsor for 14 years, and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City takes the event’s top sponsorship spot.

“We are very proud to once again partner with Stockton University to host and sponsor this tremendous event,” said Joe Lupo, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. “It is an honor to give back to our community and to show our support for education and the Stockton students.”  

Other top sponsors include: Stockton University Foundation’s Board of Directors;

Azeez Foundation; Cooper Levenson, Attorneys at Law; Dr. Howard and L. Gayle Gross; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa; Capaldi Reynolds & Pelosi, P.A. CPA; Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters & Local 255; Marathon Engineering & Environmental Services, Inc.; Pepsi; Resorts Casino Hotel; Tito's Handmade Vodka.

Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available at stockton.edu/gala. For more information contact Alicia McMackin '03, associate director of development, at 609-652-4861.

Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to show their support by making a gift at stockton.edu/give.