Clambake by the River: Nets of Seafood Net Support for Scholarships

  The evening of June 20 was ideal in every way: weather, location, company — and the perfect reason for a riverside celebration on the Connecticut River Academy patio, as more than 150 guests gathered to generously support scholarship opportunities at Goodwin College. From the moment they were greeted by the bountiful seafood bar of oysters, clams, and shrimp, the guests — most decked out in their summer blues and whites — knew that the Goodwin College Clambake would be something special.

Donors, faculty and staff members, local officials, and other friends of the College spent the beginning of the evening sampling the hors d’oeuvres and socializing with Goodwin students, some of whom had benefitted from past scholarship support. There was also a nautically themed Selfies Booth for those that wanted to dress up in costume and snap a photo or two.

At 7:30, the guests were called to dinner with catering by Flanders Fish Market and J Restaurant. Certainly one of the highlights of the evening was the red and white baskets stuffed with nets of steamed mussels, clams, potatoes, and corn, and topped with fresh, hearty lobsters. Experienced lobster lovers coached the newbies on the best ways to crack the shells and get every bit of meat.

During dinner, President Mark Scheinberg addressed the crowd, thanking them for their support of Goodwin’s mission. In particular, he called attention to Dan and Betty Russell and Frank and Ceil Collins, whose recent generous leadership gifts to the scholarship fund will make a critical difference in the lives of a number of Goodwin students. This year’s student Commencement speaker, Jenette Davis, offered an abridged version of her speech and was warmly received by the guests.

Throughout the evening, the Cobalt Rhythm Kings kept the mood lively, inspiring a few brave partiers to take to the dance floor while others enjoyed their summer desserts. View photos of the festivities.

If you are interested in making your own gift to the scholarship fund, please contact the Goodwin College Foundation at (860) 291-9934.