The Return of the TAPPI Silent Auction

After much consideration, the NC State student TAPPI officer team decided to change things for the Foundation Week fundraiser. In the past, the chapter hosted a golf tournament to raise funds to assist students that potentially would be attending the annual Student Summit.  Despite the diligent efforts of students, and the continuous support from donors, the golf tournament struggled to make a profit and it was determined a change was needed. It was time for the return of the Pulp and Paper Foundation Silent Auction.

Shortly after the fall vote for the 2018-2019 TAPPI officer elections, the suggestion of a silent auction was made, and plans were immediately put into motion to ensure the success of the event.  Efforts continued well into the summer, even while everyone on the fundraising committee was juggling the hard-press demands of internships and hectic life events. Once the storm had passed, it appeared the silent auction would be a tremendous success, for many valuable items had been donated. Among them were the priceless hand-made cornhole boards from the Balicki and Gamache family, various gift baskets from multiple donors, a Kevin Keatts signed basketball, a photograph of Carter Finley Stadium donated by Dr. Med Byrd, and phenomenal NC State paintings by the chapter’s own Lindsay Leonard.  The final goal was set and the fundraising committee began final preparations for the highly anticipitated event.

Baskets Create Buzz and Bidding “War”

The return of the auction proved to be the right decision as  baskets on display were creating quite the buzz and bidding “war.” The TAPPI chapter would like to thank the winners,  Larry Offill, Don Lee, Tim Rooks, Kevin Farley, Kai Simonsen, Will Schrieter, Tanner Evans, Dean Mary Watzin, Sarah Zimmermen, and Mary Elliston.  The chapter would also like to recognize the Balicki, Gamache and Byrd Family, Lonnie Poole Golf Course, the NC State Athletic Department, Debra McGee,  and Lindsay Leonard for their contributions made that ultimately aided in the huge success of this event.  Through the support of both the donors and winners, many students will be able to attend professional development events, such as Student Summit.

Success equals Team Work

The NCSU TAPPI chapter would once again like to express its appreciation to all involved in the Silent Auction.  While the aspirations for the event were surpassed, it is still the goal of the organization to make this a sustainable and profitable fundraiser for the future. Through the dedication and support of students, faculty, alumni, donors, and other members of the Pulp and Paper Foundation family, that expectation can and will be reached.

by student guest blogger: Reagan Barnhill