Ivy Tech Fort Wayne’s largest annual fundraiser, A Reason to Taste, raises $86,000+ for students and programs

In its eighth year, Saturday’s A Reason to Taste at Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne raised more than $86,000 for student scholarships and academic programs. Corporate sponsorships, live auctions and individual donations added to the success of the event.

At A Reason to Taste: Rue de Paris, guests enjoyed an interactive culinary cabaret along the streets of “Paris” complete with wandering musicians and visited street vendors with fabulous food prepared by Hospitality Administration students and graduates. The meal and wine pairings were inspired by students who won Ivy Tech’s European Competition last January and traveled to France to study culinary arts over the summer. This experience was funded in part by A Reason to Taste and the Ivy Tech Foundation.  

“Guests and volunteers have a fantastic time every year during A Reason to Taste, but the best part is remembering that this event is all about helping our students successfully reach their goals,” says Margaret Sturm, executive director of Resource Development. “The gifts that our sponsors and donors give help support students through life’s challenges and gives them the tools they need to succeed at Ivy Tech and as contributing members of our community.”

Fort Wayne’s NBC was a media sponsor and both Linda Jackson and Parkview Health’s Curtis Smith emceed the event, which was hosted at Parkview Health’s Mirro Center for Research and Innovation. Parkview Health was the event’s presenting sponsor and ProFed Credit Union was reception sponsor.

Next year’s event is tentatively scheduled for early November. Those who are interested in sponsorship opportunities and/or serving on next year’s planning committee can contact Sturm at msturm7@ivytech.edu or 260-480-2010. Donations to this year’s total can still be made at IvyTech.edu/reason.