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A Record-Breaking Night: CCEF’s 2025 Celebration of Education Gala
The Cherokee County Educational Foundation's (CCEF) 2025 Celebration of Education Gala was truly a night to remember!
Held on March 8th at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs in Canton, the black-tie affair brought together over 400 attendees in a dazzling evening of Wonka-themed fun. The event broke records, raising an incredible $210,000—the highest in the foundation's 13-year history—to benefit students, teachers, and classrooms in the Cherokee County School District (CCSD).
A Night of Magic & Giving
From the moment guests arrived, they were transported into a "world of pure imagination" as the venue was transformed into a whimsical wonderland inspired by Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. The evening kicked off with an energetic performance by dancing Oompa-Loompas from the North Georgia Clogging and Dance Company (led by Tori O'Bryant). Everyone enjoyed dancing the night away to performances from Rupert's Orchestra, the well-known Atlanta based Motown Rock band. Local talents Ethan Senger and Kurt Lee Wheeler also took the stage again this year, delivering outstanding performances.
Attendees indulged in a unique dining experience inspired by the classic film. The 1885 Grill restaurant provided a bourbon bar again this year, while the dinner menu took inspiration from the movie's famous gum-chewing scene—featuring tomato soup, roast beef, and blueberry pie. "Violet, you're turning Violet!" Guests also enjoyed handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktails at the Dry Lush Bar, offering a new and fun twist to the gala this year.The energy remained high throughout the night, with an array of entertainment. Guests bid on exclusive items in the silent auction and took snapshots in the photo booth. The night reached a peak with the Golden Ticket Raffle drawing, where lucky winner Laura French sent her husband, Donald, into the Credit Union of Georgia's cash machine. In just 60 seconds, he grabbed an astounding $8,700 of the $10,000 available prize!
Honoring Outstanding Alumni
A key highlight of the evening was the 2025 Alumni of the Year Awards, recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact in the community.
Jonathan Pope (Cherokee High School, Class of 1988)—Honored for his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and his dedication to serving the community.Pat Tanner (Ralph Bunche High School, Class of 1964)—Recognized for her achievements as the first elected African-American Canton City Councilwoman and for her role in the Civil Rights Movement. Pat Tanner marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Alabama, 60 years ago. While she could not attend the event in person, City Manager, Billy Peppers accepted the award on her behalf.
A Lasting Impact on Education
The success of this year's gala is a testament to the community's ongoing support for education. The record-breaking $210,000 raised will directly fund Classroom Impact Grants and Rapid Grants, providing resources and opportunities for students and teachers in Cherokee County.
"We are so excited that our community continues to turn out in record numbers for this event. Their commitment ensures the excellence of our Cherokee County School District schools," said CCEF Executive Director Lisa-Marie Haygood. "Strong public schools are a key component of Cherokee County, making this a desirable place for children to grow and learn, and families to make their home."Thank You for Making It Possible!
A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor, PBK Architects, along with all our generous sponsors, donors, attendees, and volunteers who made this night possible. Your support is helping to create a brighter future for education in Cherokee County!
Want to relive the magic? Click the link above to see more photos from the evening.
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