NAIT Cruise sails to record success
When the SS Benefit Nait Cruise landed at its port of call in the United Arab Emirates on March 3, passengers had contributed more than $750,000 to the Institute - well in excess of the $400,000 raised last year.
Celebrating the most successful Cruise yet: President and CEO Dr. Sam Shaw (centre), along with AMAN Building Corporation's President Shiraz Jiwani (right) Project Manager Faizal Jiwani (left).
Shiraz Jiwani, President of AMAN Building Corporation, helped the 19th annual Cruise sail into history as the most successful yet. He matched donations to the live auction, contributing $275,000.
"Results like this are indicative of the ongoing efforts of an outstanding group of volunteers, many whom return year after year to put in hours of their own time to make this event one of the country's most highly anticipated and premiere gala events," said President and CEO Dr. Sam Shaw.
"I would like thank all the volunteers - the staff and students - whose generous contributions resulted in our most successful Cruise ever."
Nearly 300 volunteers - who collectively have contributed more than 650 volunteer event years to the Cruise - helped make this year's event the most successful yet.
"Every year it becomes a better event and that really is a reflection of the commitment of all involved to making this the best fundraiser in Edmonton," said Peter Lawlor, Volunteer Coordinator and the Dean of the School of Applied Building Science Operations.
The Cruise is the Institute's premier fundraising event in support of our internationally-renowned Culinary Arts program. The fun, magical evening is also a chance for NAIT's supporters to come together and enjoy a first-class event showcasing the talents of staff and students from various departments.
The United Arab Emirates was chosen as this year's Cruise destination because it is one of the many international locations where NAIT Global Enterprise Solutions offers customized training for business and industry.
When guests arrived at NAIT on March 3, they passed through a sail resembling the Burj Al Arab - the landmark Dubai hotel - as they boarded the cruise ship. The South Lobby and the main cafeteria, meanwhile, were transformed into a Middle Eastern Oasis.
Mark your calendars - on March 1, 2008, the SS Benefit Nait sets sail to a mystery destination to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
