The Bellevue College Foundation’s “Become Exceptional” Luncheon raised more than $245,000 from over 600 guests for scholarships and academic programs. Now in its 14th year, the May 1 event, held at the Meydenbauer Center, also attracted 33 corporate and in-kind sponsors that underwrote the cost of the luncheon, allowing every dollar that guests donated to support Bellevue College and its students.

“The success of the foundation and of the luncheon is dependent on the tremendous support we receive from the community, and I’m thrilled that so many people stepped up in a big way to help our students,” said Paul Swegle, president of the foundation’s board.

Gerald Chertavian, founder of Year Up, a nationwide network of education and training programs for low-income young adults, delivered the keynote address. Additionally, several Bellevue College students spoke to the audience about their success at BC and in life thanks to Foundation scholarships, which enabled them to stay in school despite difficult financial circumstances.

Established in 1978, the BC Foundation is a non-profit organization that receives and manages individual and institutional gifts, grants and awards on behalf of Bellevue College. Last year, the Foundation raised more than $1.4 million. More information is available at http://bellevuecollege.edu/foundation/.