Galloway, N.J. — After two decades at off-campus venues, Stockton University’s premier fundraising event is coming home in 2025.  

The Stockton University Foundation Scholarship Benefit Gala will be held at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, April 26, in the heart of the Galloway campus at the university’s Campus Center — bringing a new level of excitement and impact. 

“This is more than a gala, it’s a homecoming,” said President Joe Bertolino. “Returning to campus is a powerful way to honor Stockton’s history, invest in the next generation of students and highlight the beauty and spirit of our university.” 

Since its inception, the Benefit Gala has raised more than $5 million to support scholarships for Stockton students. The Benefit Gala Endowed Scholarship Fund provides essential financial support for Stockton students, ensuring that future generations have access to a transformative education. 

"The Foundation Board of Directors decided to bring the gala back to campus as a meaningful way to reconnect with our roots and enhance the impact we can have through scholarships," said Gayle Gross, chair of Special Events. “It’s a reflection of the Board’s commitment to supporting the university’s mission and creating opportunities for deserving students.” 

Guests will enjoy a top-shelf cocktail reception, featuring carving stations, a raw bar, a pasta station and decadent desserts. Between dancing and dining, guests can capture memories at a photo booth, take a chance on the 50/50 raffle and enjoy interactive experiences with faculty and staff. 

Guests will engage with student- and faculty-led activities from each academic school, including: 

• Beat the Polygraph Challenge with the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Osprey Trivia Challenge with the School of Education
• Champagne Tasting with Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management students
• Entertainment featuring dueling piano performances by Shake Rattle & Roll, DJ Ahmed Kahn ’84 keeping the dance floor alive, and student performances by Stockapella and the Stockton String Ensemble.
• An art gallery featuring the works of students and alumni. 

“Year after year, we see how the Stockton community comes together at the Benefit Gala to change students’ lives through scholarships,” said Ken Calemmo, chief operating officer of Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law. “We are honored to be a part of this meaningful tradition and continue investing in Stockton’s future.”   

Top sponsors include International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 351, the Stockton University Foundation Board of Directors, Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law, Dr. Howard and Gayle Gross, the Azeez Foundation, Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters and Local 255, Marathon Engineering & Environmental Services, Pepsi and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.  

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, please visit stockton.edu/gala or contact Alicia Trombley '03, associate director of Development, at 609-652-4861. 

Those who are unable to attend can make a gift at stockton.edu/give.  

The Stockton University Foundation is dedicated to supporting the mission of Stockton University by providing scholarships, funding academic programs, and enhancing the campus experience for students. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation helps remove barriers to student success.