“Every dollar raised goes back to the school to support students and teachers.” ”

Jennifer Ferrante

BLACK HAWK — In her closing remarks at the Gilpin County Education Foundation Scholarship Dinner Fundraiser, President Sarah Swanson said: “Since we have started this dinner, altogether we have awarded $112,000. That is 109 students whose paths were just a little bit easier because of this community.”

The scholarship dinner is one of two annual fundraisers that support the Gilpin County students. While the dinner focuses on scholarships for any graduating senior who is a resident of Gilpin County, the annual golf tournament — this year on August 12 at the Evergreen Golf Course — supports the organization's general fund. 

Since 1994, the Gilpin County Education Foundation has been supporting Gilpin County students by enriching programs, supporting teachers, and providing financial assistance to students. Jennifer Ferrante, member for the last six years and current Treasurer, said, “I like the mission of the organization, that every dollar raised goes back to the school to support students and teachers.” 

While the organization has a primary focus on the Gilpin County School District, scholarships are not exclusive to Gilpin County School students.  Any graduating student who resides in Gilpin County and needs assistance toward post-secondary education—including college, community college, technical school, or certificate programs—can apply. This year's application deadline is April 27. 

At this year’s dinner, 73 attendees enjoyed a gourmet three-course meal, presentations from two scholarship recipients, and a delightful raffle at the Monarch Casino's elegant event center.

Jennifer Ferrante, Suzie Murphy, and Jen Bowman ran a lively raffle of items donated by local businesses and artists.

Photo by Curt Halsted

The evening's keynote speaker was Katura Atherton, a 2013 graduate of Gilpin County School. Atherton spoke about the impact community support had on her as a student and how that inspired her to return to Gilpin County School to become the varsity girls' basketball coach. Self awareness, tenacity, trust, and working hard were some of the values that she hopes to continue instilling in the students she works with. 

Faith Ramsey, a 2025 graduate of Gilpin County School, described how scholarships and community support have helped her in her first year at college. Faith is attending Colorado Christian College, playing basketball and pursuing a degree in industrial engineering.

As the evening concluded, Swanson addressed the crowd, saying the goal was to raise $10,000 for scholarships. With $6,000 already raised from sponsors and donations from the community, the goal was to raise $4,000 from the dinner.

Sarah Swanson, GCEF president, addresses the participants at this year's scholarship dinner and fundraiser.

Photo by Curt Halsted

When it was all wrapped up, the total amount raised exceeded expectations, with $13,502 to be used for scholarships this year.  

Any individual, organization, or business can donate or become a sponsor for the GCEF. This year's sponsors included Grapes and Sons Excavating, United Power, and The Clinton Family Foundation. More information can be found on their website: gilpineducationfoundation.org.