January 20, 2021
Las Vegas, N.M. – This year the Highlands Loves Virtual Gala will be Feb. 10 at 6 p.m., featuring chocolate from Señor Murphy’s candy maker and New Mexico wines from the Castañeda Hotel in Las Vegas.
“The community knows this event for the amazing chocolate desserts, delicious wine, and lively auctions to support Highlands student success programs,” said Juli Salman, Highlands alumni director. “This year we’re having the same exciting event in a different virtual format. You can participate from the comfort and safety of your home.”
Salman said chef Sean Sinclair of Kin restaurant at the Castañeda Hotel will lead participants on a culinary adventure online via Zoom.
“You’ll taste three specially chosen wines and a variety of chocolate, flavored with local ingredients like Chile that pair well with the wines,” Salman said. “Find out which is your favorite. To participate, go online and register by Feb. 2 at www.nmhufoundation.org/spring-2021-events
The cost of the event is $100 per household.
“Three bottles of wine and the sumptuous chocolate will be delivered to your home before the Feb. 10 event. This is a chance to brush off the hardships of the last months and celebrate the opportunities Highlands gives to our students.
“Our V.I.P guests will virtually sample three selected wines and a variety of chocolate delicacies designed to get you in the mood for Valentine’s Day,” Salman said.
A silent auction is part of the Highlands Loves Virtual Gala again this year. The silent auction opens Feb. 4 at 5 p.m. and will close at approximately 8 p.m. Feb. 10. There will also be a live auction Feb. 10.
To register for the auctions, use this link Free to register – click here
“Bid on exciting vacation packages and unique experiences, jewelry and handbags, sports and entertainment collectibles, wine, fine art and much more during our auctions,” Salman said.
Salman said the Highlands Loves Virtual Gala and all Highlands Foundation Office initiatives benefit Highlands students in a number of ways.
“These and other Foundation Office events help support things like student scholarships and high-impact education practices,” Salman said. “This year we’re also raising funds for the immediate needs of our Highlands students during the pandemic, like the HU food pantry and HU career closet as well as the Dean Farmer Fund, which supports emergency needs for students.”
In addition, Salman said children in the community will benefit from summer camps at the Conservation Science Center @HU and the Friends of Art at Highlands University.
Salman said that while facing unprecedented challenges during these past months, now more than ever Highlands students and the community need to feel the love.
“Everyone is welcome at the Highlands Loves Virtual Gala. You don’t need to be an alum to join the fun. Let’s celebrate together,” Salman said.
For more information about the Highlands Loves Virtual Gala contact the Alumni Office via email at alumni@nmhu.edu