Goodwin College raised over $10,000 for scholarships with the help of Onyx Spirits Company and local breweries.

Goodwin College, in partnership with Onyx Spirits Company, a Connecticut craft liquor distillery, held a Secret Stash Beer Bash along the Connecticut River on Saturday, August 29, 2015, raising money for student scholarships.

The sold-out event took place on a beautiful summer evening on the East Hartford campus, where over 450 guests sampled and judged local beer brewed in Secret Stash whiskey barrels, while enjoying food from local restaurants and food trucks.

Jessica Cockrane, a friend of the College and West Hartford resident, was happy to support the cause. “What better way to support the College and the students than with a fun event like this?”

Shavonne Overton, a current student of Goodwin’s nursing program and a recent scholarship recipient, attended the event with the intent of helping other students. “I recently received a scholarship from the Goodwin Foundation, which was so exciting,” she stated. “I’m always looking for ways to give back and Goodwin always throws beautiful events.”

Onyx co-founder Adam von Gootkin and his team were excited to be a part of the fundraising efforts. “Thank you for coming to support Goodwin College and the local breweries that have put their heart and soul into this,” he said to the assembled guests.

Guy Labella, College Relations Director, believes that these types of events help to expand the College’s footprint. “Most importantly, Goodwin is raising money for the Foundation,” he noted. “Goodwin really embraces the community and welcomes everyone.”

Brooke Penders, Goodwin’s Vice President of Advancement, praised Onyx, the breweries, sponsors, and guests for their contributions. “We hope this will become an annual event,” Penders stated. “Thank you all for all that you’re doing for the students.”

If you would like to support Goodwin students, please contact the Advancement Office at (860) 291-9934 or giving@goodwin.edu.

View more photos here.