FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heritage University celebrates 40 years of Bounty of the Valley
with events that reach more supporters across Washington state

Toppenish, Wash. — Heritage University celebrated the 40th anniversary of its signature fundraising event, the Bounty of the Valley Scholarship Dinner and Paddle Raise, by expanding the tradition beyond the Yakima Valley for the first time in its history. Through two separate celebrations, the first in Seattle and the second in Toppenish, the university reached more supporters across Washington state while commemorating four decades of scholarship impact. Together, the events raised a record $1,941,096 for student scholarships at Heritage University.

The first event was held Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Georgetown Ballroom in Seattle. More than 150 guests from across western Washington gathered for an evening that brought together longtime friends of Heritage University and many new supporters eager to learn more about the university’s mission and the students it serves.

The event provided guests with the opportunity to meet Heritage students, hear firsthand stories of perseverance and achievement, and gain a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of higher education. Throughout the evening, attendees discovered what has inspired generations of supporters to invest in Heritage’s mission of expanding educational opportunity for students who might otherwise be left behind. The overwhelming enthusiasm and generosity of those in attendance demonstrated that communities throughout Washington state are eager to support meaningful work that changes lives and strengthens families for generations to come.

The second celebration took place Saturday, June 6, 2026, on Heritage University’s campus in Toppenish. More than 220 guests attended the milestone event, enjoying a gourmet dinner prepared by longtime restaurateurs John Gasparetti and Brad Patterson while hearing firsthand from students whose educational journeys have been transformed through scholarship support. Students shared powerful stories of perseverance and achievement, illustrating how scholarships are creating brighter futures not only for themselves, but also for their families and communities.

Heritage University was honored to welcome acclaimed American opera singer Ann McPhail as a performer at both Bounty of the Valley celebrations. Her powerful and inspiring performances complemented the evening’s student testimonials, underscoring the life-changing impact that scholarship opportunities made possible through the generosity of donors have on Heritage students and their families.

David Wise, Senior Vice President for Advancement and Marketing at Heritage University, said the decision to expand the Bounty of the Valley reflects the university’s belief that Heritage’s mission resonates far beyond the Yakima Valley. He noted that people from all walks of life are inspired by the determination of Heritage students and eager to support their success once they learn about the university’s impact.

“For 40 years, Bounty of the Valley has connected our supporters with the incredible stories of determination, perseverance, and achievement that define our students,” Wise said. “We know that Heritage’s mission of expanding opportunity through education speaks to generous people wherever they live. Once they meet our students and learn about the challenges they have overcome and the dreams they are pursuing, they want to be part of that journey. By bringing the Bounty to Seattle, we’re making it easier for more people to experience that inspiration firsthand and join us in transforming students’ lives.”

The Toppenish celebration was also livestreamed through the Heritage University website, allowing supporters across the country to participate in the event. Those who were unable to attend can still support Heritage students by viewing program highlights and make a gift at Heritage.edu/bounty.

For more information, contact Davidson Mance, Media Relations Coordinator, at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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