A Night Under the Sea: The 2025 Annual Aesculapius Charity Ball shines bright

The 2025 Annual Aesculapius Charity Ball, held Feb. 1, captured the spirit of generosity and community that is alive and well here at NEOMED. With nearly 300 attendees, the event’s theme—A Night Under the Sea—set the stage for a memorable and impactful evening in support of student scholarships.

The event brought together individuals from all corners of campus, notably President John Langell and his family, Provost Dr. Forrest Faison, College of Medicine Dean Marc Basson and his wife, COM Vice Dean Eugene Mowad and his wife, College of Pharmacy Dean Katherine Tromp and her husband, as well as several esteemed faculty and staff members, including Dr. Corrie Stofcho, Dr. Amy Lee, Margy Sanders and Iris Mirelez. It was wonderful to see the NEOMED community come together for a shared cause.

One particularly memorable highlight was the tango performance led by Dr. Lee and Lyndall Amann. To a thrilling tune from Pirates of the Caribbean, their dance was beautifully executed by the Step & Sway Ballroom Dance Group. Afterward, the group led the entire crowd in a line dance to Shivers by Ed Sheeran.

Generosity was on full display, as over 40 raffle and silent auction baskets were donated by various NEOMED departments, faculty, staff and external organizations. The incredible range of prizes—from gift baskets filled with local treats to exclusive experiences—provided ample opportunities for attendees to contribute to a worthy cause. The highlight of the night was the highly anticipated five-day stay in Maui, Hawaii, generously donated by Dr. Langell and his wife, Dr. Sara Whittingham. Tickets for the raffle can still be purchased through September on OneCause.

By the end of the night, the efforts of everyone involved—attendees, donors, and volunteers—paid off. The event raised well over $10,000 for student scholarships that will help further empower the next generation of health care professionals.

- submitted by Tori Carpenter, Student Services

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