UMES to host celebrity-studded Gala in 2010

By Stephen Williams / WESM News

PRINCESS ANNE, MD – Tinseltown is coming to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) next year, in support of the University's 11th Annual Gala.

At a press conference on Thursday, University President Thelma B. Thompson announced the names of several entertainment and sports celebrities who have promised to attend the UMES Gala next March. The event's theme will be called "An Evening with the Stars" and proceeds from the University Gala will used to fund student scholarships.

Some of the celebrities who have pledge to support the Gala's fundraising goal - and personally appear at the event - include Academy-award winning actor Louis Gossett, Jr., legendary blues artist B.B. King, and Heisman-award winning rusher and receiver Herschel Walker.

Also confirmed to attend the UMES Gala is renowned golfer Lee Elder, and acclaimed saxophonist Clarence Clemons. Clemons is a member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band and has appeared in numerous television programs - including HBO's The Wire. He also attended UMES, when it was then known as Maryland State College.

I asked President Thompson to share her impressions on the list of celebrities who have promised to show up at the Gala and lend their support for student scholarships at UMES:

Thompson: Celebrities always bring excitement with them ... our theme is "A Night of Stars" ... so naturally I'm excited about anything that brings positive attention, and help, to the University -- and financial assistance for my very needy students.

The UMES Gala will take place on Saturday, March 6, 2010.