By Marc C. Shaffer
In 2013, I received an invite from a friend to attend my first Wabash CannonBall. Little did I know what a fun event I was in store for, and how it would become something I looked forward to every year!
I have attended the Wabash CannonBall every year since and not only do I love the event, but after learning what it supports, I am even more proud to be part of the celebration.
Kansas City-area K-Staters turn out for the Wabash CannonBall gala event each year to raise money for area high school students who plan to attend K-State. The black tie gala is always a grand time for Wildcats.
To date, the gala has awarded more than 860 scholarships for Kansas City-area students totaling nearly $2.2 million. The Wabash CannonBall Kansas City also has funded a scholarship endowment fund totaling nearly $3.6 million.
The Wabash CannonBall is making a name across the country as well. There are events held annually in Denver, Houston and the North Texas area. You’re sure to have a visit from Willie the Wildcat and see some of the most outrageous outfits (think bright purple tuxedos) from K-State alum.
The event is organized by the K-State Alumni Association, but a Steering Committee consisting of 30 active community members from the KC area that are also actively involved with K-State help make it happen. The committee members assist with directing the event with the Alumni Association to ensure that a wonderful time is had by those that attend and that we raise as much as possible to meet our goals for scholarships.
You can learn more about the event at: https://www.k-state.com/participate/alumniandfriends/wabashcannonball/kansascity/
To see just a slice of the fun, visit our Facebook page HERE.
Want to get involved? Here are some ideas:
- Join your friends and attend the event
- Join the Alumni Association
- Sponsor the Event – K-State has many proud community leaders who support the event with their business through sponsorship. Some of the past sponsors can be found HERE.
- Donate a Giveaway – Many prizes are given away at the event from other businesses in the KC area. The committee is looking for giveaways from businesses who might be interested in supporting our mission. Examples include restaurant gift cards, K-State merchandise, etc.
If you’ve never been to this event, make plans to join me next time! I can’t wait to see YOU at the Wabash CannonBall.