On February 20, more than 100 members of the Warner Pacific community gathered in McGuire Auditorium to celebrate athletics and invest in the future of our student-athletes. Marking the return of the Gala for the first time since 2020, the evening reflected a community aligned around purpose.
From the beginning, the room carried a sense of energy and connection. Students engaged with guests, conversations filled the space, and supporters participated in raffles and silent auction bidding鈥攁ll contributing to a shared investment in student success. In a nod to the evening鈥檚 鈥渄ress your best with your best sneakers鈥� theme, guests brought both style and personality, adding a unique and memorable touch to the celebration.
The program also honored President Emeritus Dr. Jay Barber with a Legacy Award, recognizing his role in restoring athletics at Warner Pacific and shaping a program that continues to develop leaders of character, discipline, and faith.
The defining moment of the evening came during the paddle raise. What began as an ambitious goal resulted in $100,000 raised for student-athlete scholarships鈥攁n outcome made possible through the collective generosity of alumni, partners, and friends, and strengthened through the leadership and partnership of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.
鈥淎s we planned this Gala, I carried a goal in mind,鈥� said Matt Gregg, Athletic Director. 鈥淭o see our community exceed it in such a meaningful way was incredible. I鈥檓 especially grateful for our partnership with United Way and Kelly O鈥橪ague. Their care for our student-athletes was evident throughout the entire evening. This is just the beginning of what鈥檚 possible.鈥�
This moment was not defined by a single night, but by what it now makes possible. Every dollar raised directly supports students鈥攅xpanding access, reducing financial barriers, and creating opportunity for student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals with confidence. This is where impact becomes real: in the lives of students who are being equipped, supported, and prepared to lead with purpose.
鈥淲e give thanks to God,鈥� said Douglas Wade, Interim President of 玩偶姐姐. 鈥淣ot only for the provision that made this possible, but for the people He brought together in support of our students. What took place was a powerful reminder that when a community moves in unity with purpose, the impact extends far beyond a single moment.鈥�
The Night of Knights Gala was not simply a return. It was a statement about who we are, what we value, and what we are building together.