Bellevue-based Executive Development Institute (EDI) held its annual benefit dinner and auction “Inclusion Fusion” at Seattle’s newly renovated SODO Park on May 20. Over 250 guests participated in the silent and live auctions contributing about $90,000 in funds.

Mariners Manager Don Wakamatsu made a special appearance and mingled with guests.

As “Inclusion Fusion” conveys, EDI is embarking on a new chapter in its 16-year history. The non-profit leadership institute will be expanding its programs to additional ethnic groups.

Last year, EDI successfully introduced a leadership program tailored for Hispanic participants in addition to its long-established programs for Asian-Pacific participants. Over 500 participants have graduated from EDI leadership programs.

Funds raised will allow EDI to continue to expand its programs both in content and diversity. EDI’s vision is to be the preeminent leadership institute where corporations and organizations seek diverse global leaders.

Major sponsors for this benefit dinner include Prudential, KeyBank Foundation, State Farm Insurance, Weyerhaeuser, Boeing, Nordstrom, and Wells Fargo.

Emcees for the event were Jaime Mendez, anchor for Univision and Marlee Ginter, anchor for KOMO. Laura Michalek, “Seattle’s Fundraising Auctioneer,” was the featured auctioneer.

For more information on EDI and its leadership programs, visit www.ediorg.org.