Pinnacle Centennial Gala Raises Funds for SMU

The Samuel Merritt University community is getting ready to celebrate the final Centennial event, A Magical Transformation, in style.  Wrapping up this year's festivities, the Gala promises to be an evening filled with magical surprises, delicious food, and lively entertainment.  The Gala committee, comprised of community members, alumni, faculty and staff, have been planning the event for over a year. 

Guests will be entertained by strolling magicians and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist student, Malina Maneevone.  The classically trained opera singer will amaze and astound you.  Also featured will be the mind- boggling talents of Gregg Foxx, presenting his "Magic of the Mind."   Foxx will demonstrate the practically unlimited potential of the human mind as he invites members of the audience to participate in demonstrations involving non-verbal communication, mathematical improbabilities, intuition, and mind control.  The program will also feature a live auction.

"All the performers will leave you with the feeling that you have experienced something unique and truly extraordinary," says Brent Sommer, CRNA, MPHA, faculty and Co-chair Gala Program and Entertainment Committee. 

The primary beneficiary of the Gala is the University's John Graziano Memorial Library.  Twenty-five years ago, when the Library was built, it accommodated 400 students and 300 medical staff members as well as the East Bay community. Today the Library struggles to house over 1,200 students with a projection of 1,600 students by 2012. 

"The Library is the most comprehensive resource of its kind in the East Bay, but has capacity limitations given user demand," explains Sue Sylvester-Valencia, Executive Director of Development and Alumni Affairs.  "This renovation project is critical to the University's students, alumni, physicians, and visitors who seek current health information and research." 

Donors may also choose to support any of the academic programs or scholarship funds as well.  Sutter Health has offered to match all gifts, dollar-for-dollar up to $500,000 if received by December 31, 2009.  Close to 300 people are expected to attend the evening event.  For more information contact Gena Caya, Administrative Assistant of Development and Alumni Affairs at 510.869.8628.

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