Issue link: http://baypath.uberflip.com/i/830925
5 G'09, trustee Jonathan Besse, and community advocate Yvette Frisby. Before the excitement of watching the tango, swing, and cha-cha, Adrianne Haslet, Boston Marathon bombing survivor and ballroom dancer in her own right, inspired the crowd with her keynote address illustrating her resiliency and determination, mirroring the stories of many Bay Path students. Adrianne was one of three judges of the competition, and was joined at the judges' table by former Bay Path trustee Suki Kramer, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. Partnered with Gunnar and Daryll '98 Sverrisson, owners and lead instructors of Ballroom Fever Dance Studio, the star dancers wowed the crowd. The voting—both live and online—was fast and furious. While the judges convened and the votes were tallied, guests had the opportunity to provide Mirror Ball Moments to Bay Path students by instantly giving gifts of scholarship and experience that will change their lives. Adrianne Haslet was one of the first to raise her program for scholarships, and others followed. Within minutes, thousands of dollars were raised. The excitement of the Mirror Ball Moments was a fitting prelude to the presentation of the Mirror Ball Trophy. President Leary was joined by MassMutual CEO Roger Crandall and Andrews Associates President Graeme Bazarian, both Mirror Ball sponsors, to announce the big winner, trustee Jonathan Besse. The crowd erupted in cheers, not just for Jonathan, but for all the dancers. At the end of the evening, the results were in: the inaugural President's Gala raised more than $150,000. Our guests truly "danced a mile in their shoes" by showing their tremendous support for Bay Path students and our mission. "This Gala has been one of the highlights of my time at Bay Path. This night was my Mirror Ball Moment, showcasing our mission and Bay Path students. It was unforgettable!" President Carol Leary 1 Daryll Sverrisson '98 and Jonathan Besse celebrate the big win with his family, from left, Melissa Besse, Daryll, Jonathan, Julia, Joshua, and Jared. 2. The Mirror Ball Trophy is awarded! Graeme Bazarian, President of Andrew Associates, and Roger Crandall, President & CEO of MassMutual, representing the Gala's two Mirror Ball Sponsors, present winner Jonathan Besse with the top prize. 1 2