For immediate release

VANCOUVER, B.C. – (March 14, 2011) – Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Public Relations Class of 2011 hosted A Night of Make Believe fundraiser for Small Talk - Centre for Language Development. Held at the Dockside Lounge on Tuesday, March 1 at the Granville Island Hotel, A Night of Make Believe was emceed by Mark Madryga from Global TV.

The evening included a silent auction, speakers directly related to children who attend Small Talk, and talented live entertainment provided by The Flood. Over 130 people contributed to make this night a wonderful success raising more than $12,000.

“I am so proud of my students,” says Amelia Kennedy, Public Relations faculty. “This marks the first year any Event Management class has raised over $12,000. There is a beautiful parallel that this money was raised by Public Relations and Journalism for children who are just finding their voice.”

“A Night of Make Believe was a great demonstration of service learning and the work-integrated nature of Kwantlen’s programs. Through this event, the students were able to apply what they learned in the classroom and give back to the community. This really highlights what we’re trying to achieve as a University.” says Arthur Coren, dean, Kwantlen School of Business.

The cocktail style event featured a make believe theme and encouraged guests to relive happy memories from their past. A variety of exciting festivities kept guest entertained throughout the evening, including raffle prizes, fifty-fifty draws, a candy bar and door prizes. In addition they were also treated to a lavish appetizers and cocktails served up by the friendly staff at Dockside Lounge.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 200,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,000 students annually have a choice from over 135 programs including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

Small Talk Centre for Language Development is a preschool established over 30 years ago, serving Metro Vancouver. Each year, they serve approximately 40 families with children suffering from language based learning difficulties. With four full time early childhood educators and one full time speech-language pathologist on site, Small Talk ensures children’s entrance into kindergarten.

-30-

For more information on A Night of Make Believe, contact:

Lesley Chang
Public Relations Team Leader
Tel: 778.883.7197
smalltalktickets@gmail.com

For more information about Kwantlen, contact:

Joanne Saunders
Director, Marketing and Communications
Tel: 604.599.2243
joanne.saunders@kwantlen.ca