Perfect Pairings Fundraiser: A Night of Collaboration and Generosity

The Perfect Pairings Fundraiser, now in its fifth year, has consistently been a beacon of collaboration, bringing professionals and students together with a shared vision of a prosperous future. This year’s event was no different, with the OPSU McKee Library providing a perfect setting for showcasing culinary and literary pairings, the clubs’ achievements, and fundraising for future competitions.

It is well-known that the technological advancements of tomorrow will greatly affect business, and thus, fostering connections between these two groups is crucial for our region’s growth. The partnership between Future Technology Professionals and Panhandle Business Leaders was a testament to the power of collaboration.

These student organizations have proven to be invaluable in nurturing students’ potential and equipping them with the skills they need for future success. These organizations offer experiential learning, provide opportunities to compete at regional and national levels, foster networking opportunities, and develop soft skills that are essential for a well-rounded professional.

Julie Johnson, OPSU student, FTP President, and PBL Secretary, spoke about her experiences with the organizations having a lasting impact on her overall confidence and sense of belonging.

By bridging the gap between classroom education and real-world applications, these student organizations offer invaluable experiences. They empower students to apply their knowledge in practical settings, fostering the development of skills that are highly sought after in the professional world. The event showcased how such initiatives are vital in shaping the leaders of tomorrow, providing them with the necessary tools to thrive in the competitive landscape of the modern workforce.

As we move into the future, it is essential to remember that progress is not achieved in isolation. By pairing knowledge, ideas, and resources, we can shape a world where technology and business work harmoniously to improve our lives and drive us toward a brighter tomorrow. The Perfect Pairings Fundraiser serves as a reminder of this truth and inspires us all to continue striving for progress, side by side.

CIS Department Chair and FTP Advisor Steve Martin commented, “The College of Business and Technology takes pride in teaching students critical thinking and soft skills so they can be successful in any career path they choose.”

The evening culminated with an engaging auction featuring the culinary and literary pairings of the evening. The event raised over six thousand dollars for both organizations to use towards travel expenses for competitions. The national competition for FTP is scheduled for April 2024 in Shreveport, Louisiana. PBL will attend the state competition in March 2024, and qualifying participants will move on to nationals in June 2024 in Orlando, Florida.

If you would like to attend next year’s event, please email perfectpairings@opsu.edu.

The clubs are thankful for the community’s generosity. If you would like to support the mission of these organizations, online donations may be made at: http://tinyurl.com/PerfectPairings-OPSU
or via check to:
OPSU Perfect Pairings
OPSU Foundation
PO Box 430
Goodwell, OK 73939.