Journalist Ted Koppel Headlines Tri-C Foundation Presidential Scholarship Luncheon

Nov. 1 event will raise more than $1.2 million for student scholarships

Veteran journalist Ted Koppel is making news at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C^®) by helping the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation raise more than $1.2 million for student scholarships.

The critically needed funds are the result of the Foundation’s 2016 Presidential Scholarship Luncheon. Koppel is serving as keynote speaker at the event, scheduled for 11:25 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1, at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel on Public Square.

“These dollars create the scholarships that turn dreams into student success stories at Cuyahoga Community College,” said Rick Chiricosta, chairperson of the Tri-C Foundation. “Lives change through the opportunities provided by our generous supporters.”

Since its inception in 1992, the Presidential Scholarship Luncheon has raised more than $17 million to help Tri-C students with financial need pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.

The Foundation awarded scholarships to more than 2,600 students last year. Those scholarships lead to graduates who contribute to a strong workforce and economic vitality in Northeast Ohio.

Koppel joins a distinguished and diverse list of speakers to headline the scholarship luncheon, including Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton; basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson; media mogul Oprah Winfrey and journalists Tom Brokaw, Sam Donaldson, Cokie Roberts and Tim Russert.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Koppel has reported on stories that shaped generations. His 26 years at the desk of ABC’s Nightline made him the longest-serving news anchor in American broadcast history.

Koppel will share his experiences as an “eyewitness to history” in a question-and-answer session during the luncheon. More than 1,000 people are expected to attend.

October 28, 2016

John Horton, 216-987-4281 john.horton@tri-c.edu