SAN ANGELO, Texas — For the past fifteen years, the Phil George Blue & Gold fundraising event has been the biggest fundraiser for both Angelo State University and Angelo State University athletics.
"It's usually a sold-out event where we have people waiting," ASU development officer Jenny Love said.
Traditionally, the Phil George Blue & Gold fundraiser is a dinner and auction held at the Junell Center on ASU's campus, but because of COVID-19, the event will be moved online for the first time ever.
"We have a responsibility to take it virtual this year," Love said.
Although the event won't be able to happen in-person, Love said she is excited to have the auction join the virtual world because she believes it will give even more people the opportunity to take part in the event.
"We have the opportunity to reach out to so many more alumni and friends of Angelo State that have perhaps wanted to participate in the past but weren't sure how. We're excited about the opportunity that will create to just bring more people to the table to raise money for Angelo State athletics," she said.
Love said the university is currently planning on moving forward with fall sports, though details have not been made final yet. The money raised from the auction will go towards university facilities, athletic equipment, recruiting, and scholarships for student-athletes.
"When we have winning teams, people are paying attention to Angelo State, and that opens the front door to the university to see all of the other great things that we're doing on campus," Love said.
The silent auction will open on Wednesday, Aug. 5, at 5 p.m. and close on Sunday, Aug. 9, at 5 p.m.
The live streamed program and auction will take place online Friday evening, Aug. 7, at 7:30 p.m.
Love said sponsorships for the event are still available and auction items can be given right up to the date.