FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – With fire and hula dancers, live island music, tropical flora, Tiki idols, and a monsoon downpour followed by a colorful rainbow arching through the skyline, it was not just another day in paradise as the Broward Education Foundation hosted its annual signature event, presented by BrightStar Credit Union, at the Harbor Beach Marriott in Fort Lauderdale.

As last year’s signature event was cancelled due to the pandemic, the foundation reimagined the annual themed fundraiser and hosted a socially distanced outdoor/indoor event, following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and adhering to local safety protocols. Each guest received a custom-crafted tropical print facemask and hand sanitizer upon arrival.

Embracing the theme, guests donned their best resort wear and bright floral prints while sipping drinks and enjoying balmy breezes against an oceanfront backdrop.

“CALL OF THE CONCH”

During the open-air sunset reception, a highlight was the thunder of drums and the breathtaking “fire knife” performance by Drums of Polynesian.

Lured by the “call of the conch,” guests enjoyed tropical themed photo stations throughout the spacious ballroom which included larger than life Tiki statues and surfboards, all to raise awareness of and funds for the only 501(c)3 organization solely dedicated to helping students and teachers in Broward County Public Schools.

After a sumptuous dinner and dessert, Drums of Polynesia once again invoked far-away lands with a series of beautiful, spirited and interactive Polynesian dances that proved guests’ dancing prowess.

“After more than a year apart, this was an outstanding night which allowed our guests to safely gather and celebrate the incredible achievements and accomplishments in public education in Broward County,” said Dustin Jacobs, vice president of marketing for BrightStar Credit Union and Broward Education Foundation board treasurer.

Proceeds benefit Broward Education Foundation’s transformational programs and initiatives for students and teachers in Broward County Public Schools.

Core focus areas include innovative teaching grants for curriculum development to advance Pre K-12 achievement; school supplies for Title I students and teachers; scholarships for qualified high school seniors, and support of district initiatives the Debate, Chess, TurnAround Arts and more.

EXCELLENCE CATALYST Each year the foundation contributes more than $3 million to county schools, serving as a catalyst for educational excellence.

“Our team went above and beyond this year to ensure our guests were able to experience some normalcy and enjoy a fun, socially distanced escape after an extremely challenging year,” said Shea Ciriago, Broward Education Foundation CEO.

“A heartfelt ‘mahalo’ to our loyal corporate partners, business leaders and community donors who continue to support the vital role that we play in shaping the future of our students.”

Visit browardeducationfoundation.org.