K-Staters set a new record for the Wabash CannonBall March 5 by raising more than $250,000 for scholarships to help Kansas City-area students.

Since the inaugural Wabash CannonBall in 2007, approximately $850,000 has been raised. Twenty students were awarded $2,500 scholarships. Eligible students will have the opportunity to renew the scholarship for the 2011-2012 school year.

"We are excited about the tremendous success of this gala event," said Amy Button Renz, president and CEO of the K-State Alumni Association. "In addition to scholarship funds, the Wabash CannonBall provided a wonderful venue to showcase the university and afforded more visibility for the more than 23,000 alumni living in the Kansas City area."

Funds raised at the event were a result of the "Fund a Wildcat" program. Each attendee had the opportunity to donate to the scholarship endowment. The total donation from each table determined their eligibility in the prize drawing, which included flat-screen televisions, Kindles, iPod Touches, Tiffany & Co. bracelets, hotel getaway packages and restaurant gift certificates.

"K-Staters never cease to amaze me with their generosity and loyalty to this great university," said Darchelle Martin, associate director of alumni programs who serves on the Wabash CannonBall planning committee.

The program included a welcome from committee chair couple Bob and Ann Regnier. Greg Musil kept the crowd entertained for the fourth consecutive year as the master of ceremonies. Charlie Hutchison, a 2009 Wabash CannonBall scholarship winner, shared his gratitude and how receiving the scholarship helped him and his parents make an important life decision. K-State President Kirk H. Schulz also was in attendance with his wife and made remarks about his first year as president.

The gala could not have happened without the 46 generous sponsors, including fourth-year underwriter Cereal Food Processors, Inc.

The band Atlantic Express, invited back for the fourth year, entertained the Wildcats with tunes from Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and other favorites all through the night at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel. 

2010 Wabash CannonBall Committee chairs
Bob '70 and Ann '74 Regnier

View photos from the event on Facebook