SEATTLE, Wash. — The Evergreen State College Foundation’s annual Art of Giving gala returned on May 8 with impressive fundraising success, bringing together alumni, students, donors, community partners, and elected leaders for an evening dedicated to expanding student opportunity. Held for the first time at the Seattle Art Museum, the event sold out two weeks in advance, signaling strong and growing support for Evergreen students.
This year’s theme, “Portraits,” invited attendees to reflect on the stories, identities, and aspirations that shape the Evergreen community. Through art, storytelling, and shared purpose, the evening immersed attendees in the transformative impact of scholarships and the collective effort required to sustain them.
“Our team focused on personalizing the experience of giving through Evergreen and connecting donors to the impact of our scholarship fund,” said Abby Kelso, Evergreen’s Vice President for Advancement. “The response from Greeners and friends who share our values and stood with students was extraordinary, and that sense of relevance and meaning is reflected in both the participation and fundraising success we achieved.”
That success reflected a growing network of support for our Evergreen students and the values-centered education they pursue. Throughout the program, attendees heard directly from students whose lives and academic journeys have been shaped by scholarship support, underscoring how philanthropic investment creates immediate and lasting impact across the Evergreen community.
“The generosity of alumni and friends was inspiring, and Evergreen students responded by filling the room with hope for a better future for us all,” said Evergreen’s President, Dr. John Carmichael.
The Art of Giving gala is a cornerstone of The Evergreen State College Foundation’s scholarship fundraising efforts and a vibrant celebration of student achievement. Proceeds from the event support the Evergreen Scholarship Fund, which provides critical financial aid to a diverse student body, including first-generation students, students of color, veterans, and adult learners, helping ensure they have the resources to thrive, graduate, and lead meaningful lives.
Founded in 2009 as the Art of Living and reimagined in 2017 as Art of Giving, the event has evolved from an on-campus art auction into a mission-driven fundraising experience hosted in venues across the region. The 2026 event marked a new chapter with its move to Seattle, expanding Evergreen’s reach and visibility.
2026 Results and Impact
- Total funds raised: More than $400,000 toward a goal of $385,000 for the Evergreen Scholarship Fund
- Total scholarships created: More than 100
- Attendance: 240 guests, including alumni, students, donors, and community leaders
In addition to fundraising success, the event reinforced Evergreen’s reputation as a values-driven liberal arts institution committed to student achievement, access, and long-term success.
For more information about the Art of Giving and how to support Evergreen students, visit: [Art of Giving website link]