Out & About: Guests don bow ties and pearls for Cal U gala

Shirley McMarlin
Monday, July 1, 2019 10:04 a.m. | Monday, July 1, 2019 10:04 a.m.

California University of Pennylvania

Cal U’s first couple, President Geraldine M. Jones and Jeff Jones, share a dance during the university’s Bowties & Pearls Ball on June 29.

California University of Pennylvania

Cal U baseball legend Les Bakos (center) accepts his induction into the university’s Hall of Fame from athletic director Karen Hjerpe and President Geraldine M. Jones during the June 29 Bow Ties & Pearls Ball.

California University of Pennylvania

(From left) California University of Pennsylvania Trustees Thomas Uram, Larry Maggi and James Davis share a laugh during Cal U’s inaugural Bow Ties & Pearls Ball on June 29.

California University of Pennylvania

Cal U President Geradine M. Jones addresses the crowd on June 29 at the university’s inaugural Bow Ties & Pearls fundraising event.

California University of Pennsylvania

New Jersey financial adviser William “Bill” Booker, Class of 1974, shown with his wife Candice Booker, received the Lillian M. Bassi Core Values Award at the June 29 Bow Ties & Pearls Ball at California University of Pennsylvania.

California University of Pennsylvania

Inducted into Cal U’s Athletic Hall of Fame during the June 29 Bow Ties & Pearls Ball (from left): Les Bakos; Class of 1968 (baseball); Helena van Eysendeyk; Classes of 2007 and 2009 (tennis); Kristin Heslop; Class of 2002 (softball); and Nate Forse; Class of 2007 (football).

California University of Pennsylvania’s first Bow Ties & Pearls Ball brought a sellout crowd of 300 guests to the Washington County campus on June 29.

Party-goers found the Convocation Center arena transformed into an elegant venue for cocktails and appetizers, followed by dinner and a dessert buffet.

University President Geraldine M. Jones welcomed four alumni to the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame and presented the Lillian M. Bassi Core Values Award, one of Cal U’s most prestigious honors, to New Jersey financial adviser William “Bill” Booker, Class of 1974.

Media personalities Andrew Stockey and Melanie Taylor handled emcee duties.

After dinner, Pittsburgh Penguins former player and current broadcaster Phil Bourque drummed up bids for a silent auction, while guests enjoyed casino games, a photo booth and dancing.

Gala proceeds will support alumni recognition projects and scholarships for Cal U students.