Student volunteers part of gala show ​

After talking with entertainer Evelyn “Champagne” King before her performance, some students were invited to join her on stage and perform. (Panther photo by Jerica White)

Many of the student volunteers served meals and beverages throughout the gala. The volunteers were also responsible for cleaning up the area after the event.

“I didn’t mind helping out because the alumni paved the way for us to be here,” junior Daniel Montgomery said.

According to sophomore Ivana Butler, working at the gala was an amazing opportunity for those wanting to work on their communication skills.

Three student volunteers spoke with gala entertainer Evelyn “Champagne” King before the gala began. During the show, King invited the students to join her on stage.

“I am very grateful to have shared the stage with an artist who has had such an expansive career in the music industry,” sophomore Christoph McFadden said.

McFadden studies music at Claflin. He said he wants to be able to share the love of music with the world just like King.

Sophomores Irana Praileau and Hannah Edwards also performed on stage.

“She was truly amazing,” Edwards said.

At the end of their short performance, King told the students to never give up.

“I heard them, and I think they’ve got it going on,” King said.

The Presidential Scholarship Gala is an annual event that raises scholarship money for the Presidential Scholars. More than 500 people attended this event.