VCU ATHLETICS HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL BLACK & GOLD BALL

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Athletics hosted its second annual Black & Gold Ball, presented by Markel on Friday, Sept. 30 at the Verizon Wireless Arena at the Stuart C. Siegel Center.  With nearly 750 attendees, the event was again a huge success, raising more than $50,000 for VCU’s Ram Athletic Fund, doubling its totals from a year ago.

The black tie optional event featured a casino, dancing to the sounds of local band Attraction on center court, wine tasting and a cigar lounge.  Upon arrival, attendees were greeted by members of the VCU baseball team as part of a red carpet entrance, while guests who purchased the VIP package were treated to an exclusive dinner with VCU President Dr. Michael Rao, Athletic Director Norwood Teague and Head Men’s Basketball Coach Shaka Smart prior to the event.

Click here to view more pictures from the event!

“We take great pride in these types of fundraising events and I’m extremely excited about the response we received from the VCU community,” said Director of Athletics Norwood Teague.  “The primary goal of the Ram Athletic Fund is to provide scholarship aid to our sixteen varsity sports as well as raise funds to support facility improvements and other initiatives inside the department.  This event plays a critical role in our continuing quest to enhance the student-athlete experience at VCU.”

Guests were also given the opportunity to have their picture taken with both the 2011 Southwest Regional Trophy and the ESPY.  Click here to view and purchase pictures!

The tentative date for next year’s Black & Gold Ball has been set for Friday, Oct. 5, 2012.  Additional details will be available in the coming months.