A&M International's "Swinging on a Dream" Gala Set for Friday

The lively rhythm of Swing taps closer to the musical ears as Texas A&M International University prepares for the Friday Gala that will kick-off a year-long celebration commemorating its 30th Anniversary of higher education service to South Texas.

The "Swinging on a Dream" Gala, scheduled for Friday, Sept. 15, from 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. at the Laredo Country Club, will observe dreams A&M International has realized for thousands of local, regional and international students who have come to its four-year University for a quality education.

A shared initiative between A&M International and the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Gala will benefit both the University's Student Scholarship Fund and the LPO Program Fund.

University partners will be present at the event to witness a historic chapter in the life of A&M International, Laredo, South Texas and beyond, said Lisa Morales, director of development.

"We have received overwhelming support from our partners who have expressed their joy in witnessing our University's continued accomplishments. Some of these partners include AEP-Central Power and Light; B.P. Newman Investment Co.; Delphi Automotive Systems; International Bank of Commerce-Laredo; Elmo Lopez; Anita Martin; Mejia Engineering Company; Hortense Offerle; Person, Whitworth, Ramos, Borchers, & Morales; Irene Saldaña; SOL Communications; Frank Architects; Crane Engineering; Vaquillas Development; Laredo National Bank; Mercy Health Systems of Texas; H-E-B Food Stores; U.S. Cellular; and Wells Fargo Bank Texas," she said.

Featuring the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the event will also present the Jerry Quintero Ensemble.

A silent auction featuring over 70 items is also scheduled from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Tickets are still available at $100 per person and include dinner and music, Morales said.

For further information on the "Swinging on a Dream" Gala or ticket purchase, please contact Lisa Morales at 326-2175 or visit offices located in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library 262. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu