The third annual Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) Education Foundation Gala galloped past all expectations on May 2, 2025, raising an impressive $131,500 for OASD adapted sports, athletics, and competitive co-curriculars. Held at The Waters, the Kentucky Derby–inspired evening brought together more than 110 community members for a night of celebration, friendly competition, and generous giving.

With an emphasis on keeping students active, included, and inspired, the 2025 gala featured a uniquely interactive experience. Decorated in their Derby best, attendees participated in a five-game challenge featuring basketball, mini golf, ring toss, hockey shootout, and bowling. A high-energy horse racing game added to the evening's excitement while generating additional funds for student programs.

"This gala represents the heart of Oshkosh - a community that believes every student deserves the chance to discover their strengths in and beyond academics," said Theresa Duren, director of the OASD Education Foundation. "When we invest in student activities and experiences, we are not just funding programs we are creating pathways for confidence, teamwork, and lifelong success that transform students' lives."

Nine dedicated community leaders served as event captains, mobilizing their networks and championing the cause: Carrie Bores, Dawn Davis, Marla Kopeky, Morgan Meier, Meredith Ottman, Frank Seckar, Matt Sonnleitner, Dan Weisse, and Chris Wright.

The evening featured powerful testimonials from OASD alumni and educators who shared personal stories about the transformative impact of school-based sports and activities:

• Frank Seckar, distinguished OASD alumnus and former athlete, opened the evening by highlighting how Oshkosh athletics laid the foundation for his leadership journey.
• Morgan Meier, accomplished OASD alumna and competitor, reminded attendees that confidence and resilience often start on the field, court, or stage.
• Dan Weisse, current boys' basketball coach at Oshkosh West High School, shared his full-circle journey from OASD student-athlete to mentor and role model for today's youth.
• The night also featured exciting raffle prizes, including a signed Tyrese Haliburton jersey, a Door County getaway, and a Kentucky Derby–themed bourbon basket — all generously donated by community members and supporters.

“This event shows what’s possible when a community comes together,” Duren added. “Every game played and dollar donated helped create more equitable, enriching opportunities for our students and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

Those interested in supporting remaining wish list items and funding needs can visit oshkosh.k12.wi.us/gala for more information.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

• Triple Crown: JEK Foundation
• Garland of Roses: Avergent, Bray Architects, A. Hyde, Nicolet Bank
• Champion: HPS | PayMedix, Miron Construction
• Promoter: Aither Health, LLC
• In-Kind Donors: Sturgeon Spirits, The Waters

The OASD Education Foundation's fundraising gala aims to support Oshkosh public schools, with proceeds benefiting a specific need or area each year. The inaugural gala in 2023 benefited the visual and performing arts in the OASD, and the 2024 gala benefited the district’s career and technical education (CTE) program. 

About the OASD Education Foundation: The OASD Education Foundation engages the community in supporting Oshkosh public schools and is committed to providing resources for innovation, fine arts, athletics, and other resources to enhance students' lives. The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation manages the OASD Education Foundation funds. For more information or to donate, contact Theresa Duren at theresa.duren@oshkosh.k12.wi.us or 920.424.0395. Additional information is available at www.oshkosh.k12.wi.us/district/oshkosh-education-foundation.