April 1, 2010

 

PHILADELPHIA - Explorer Club members gathered with coaches and staff on Thursday, March 31 for the annual Blue Chip Reception in the Mezzanine Level of Tom Gola Arena. The reception marks the beginning of this year's Explorer Club Spring Pledge Drive, which raises funds to assist La Salle's 22 sports programs. Featured guest speakers addressed the attendees, thanking them for their support and urging them to focus their efforts on fundraising for the future of La Salle athletics.

Kale Beers,'95 Associate Director of Athletics, External Affairs, kicked the night off by welcoming the crowd of over 100 supporters to the Blue Chip Reception. Yves Mekongo, two-time Academic All-American and one of La Salle's three current Atlantic 10 Conference Student-Athletes of the Year, spoke to the crowded room of supporters, expressing appreciation on behalf of La Salle student-athletes for the booster club's generosity. Other speakers included Dr. Tom Brennan, Director of Athletics and Recreation, Ken Mancini, '69 Explorer Club President, and Dr. John Giannini, Head Men's Basketball Coach.

Prior to the reception, the Explorer Club Board of Directors met to discuss strategies for the Pledge Drive. Guest speaker Laura Otten, Ph.D., Director of The Nonprofit Center at La Salle University, encouraged the Explorer Club to show their passion for La Salle Athletics at all times. The theme of relationship building was another key element of Dr. Otten's presentation. Also at the meeting, Mancini welcomed Dennis Reid, '70 as the new Explorer Club President and Beers announced Tom Leonard, '70 and Wade Brosius, '88 will serve as co-chairs of the Explorer Club Fall Auction.

Sorella Rose, an official sponsor of La Salle athletics, catered the buffet style dinner. The Explorer Club is the official fund and booster club for La Salle Athletics. For more information on how to become a member of the Explorer Club please click here.