The 2016 Annual Academy Auction was EPIC!! With Academy parent, Kelly Winter, as the chair, the auction moved into an exciting and innovative new direction. In previous years, silent auction item bidding was all done in the pen to paper format. Auction guests had to monitor the items they wanted and were required to be present to ward off the dreaded “last second sneak attack” from competitive bidders. Well, this year was a game changer!! With the help of Gestures, an online bidding and auction service, our silent auction items were able to reach a whole new audience. People who were unable to attend the auction, but still had interest in items, could bid remotely using an online link. Alerts were used to let bidders know when they were outbid or when the auction was close to ending. For those in attendance, mobile bidding allowed them to socialize more and relax rather than hover at their desired silent auction item table. These technological innovations really made the auction special and helped the Academy to bring in even more support to help our students.
Speaking of our students, their performance of three songs on the main stage really pulled at the heartstrings of auction attendees. Our students worked so hard preparing for the auction. In addition to the daily rigor of their classroom curriculum, they practiced three times a week for more than a month and it showed!! Despite nerves, anxiety, and stage fright, our students put on a performance that would rival a Broadway show!! Ok… we may be a little biased, but these kids ROCKED IT!!!
The outpouring of love and support from auction attendees, mobile bidders, and “Fund The Cause” donors was just amazing this year. We received more funds than we thought possible and really counted our blessings and gave thanks for the generosity of the Academy families. Planning has already begun for next year. Get your tickets early and bring your friends. It will be a “Night of Hope and Promise” that you won’t want to miss!!!!
