FNB teams up with MSU to sponsor a virtual ‘A Taste of the Arts’ event
The Murray State University College of Humanities and Fine Arts has announced its annual fundraising event, ‘A Taste of the Arts,’ will not take place as originally scheduled this October.
In light of concerns with the spread of COVID-19, college and department leadership made the decision to transition from an in-person event to an online and by-mail giving campaign.
“This would have been our twelfth annual event and we want to honor the tradition it has become by providing an opportunity for our alumni attendees and community supporters to continue their financial support of our students in art, music, and theatre,” said College of Humanities and Fine Arts Dean David Balthrop. “These students are still in classes and this year, perhaps more than ever, they still need the scholarship support we gain from this event.”
Though the event will not take place in its usual format, event sponsor FNB Bank has agreed to continue its sponsorship in support of student scholarships.
“FNB is always proud to sponsor the Taste of the Arts event in an effort to provide additional financial support for the art, music and theatre students at Murray State,” stated Sally Hopkins, FNB executive vice president and chief operating officer. “There is so much talent in this Murray State student segment and we want to assist in continuing the strong fine arts tradition at the University for years to come.”
In years past, the college invited donors and alumni to gather on the stage of Lovett Auditorium to witness the talents of Murray State art, music and theatre students and partake in live and silent auctions over dinner. At the 2019 event, revenue from ticket sales, auction items and outright donations reached an all-time high at more than $60,000.
“This year, despite canceling the in-person event, we hope our usual guests will make contributions in the same amount they would normally spend on their ticket and on auction items,” Balthrop said. “Doing so means our students will benefit directly from their generosity.”
Alumni, friends and community members are invited to make contributions securely online at murraystate.edu/givenow or by mail with checks made payable to the Murray State University Foundation to the Office of Development at 200 Heritage Hall, Murray, KY 42071.
