THE SHOALS-On December 17, 2021, Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa held a fund-raising concert featuring Paul Thorn and his incredible band. All funds raised from concert sales and silent auction sales were earmarked for the Jeffrey Charles Eubanks Endowment Fund at the University of North Alabama.
At a check presentation ceremony, Marriott Shoals General Manager Larry Bowser said, “Jeff Eubanks meant so much to Marriott Shoals and the entire Shoals community. He taught us all so much about food, laughter, and fun. We have made a commitment to the University of North Alabama to continue to raise money for this fund, so we can educate young people in the skills of the culinary world. We know Jeff would be proud”
Dr. Sara Lynn Baird, Dean for the College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering elaborated on the Culinary Arts program and the focus on development of advanced culinary techniques; management and leadership skills; and innovation and entrepreneurship. “Graduates of the program are prepared for successful entry into a variety of service and administrative positions in the culinary and/or food service industry,” Baird stated. “They are prepared to gain employment in service and management positions in business as well as to start their own business. We appreciate the commitment from Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa to create the Jeff Eubanks Endowment commemorating a treasured friend to UNA and mentor to our students with the knowledge that this endowment will perpetrate his enduring memory.”
Dr. Sara Lynn Baird
“We are honored by Marriott Shoals’ ongoing commitment to the Jeffrey Charles Eubanks Endowment at UNA,” said Kevin Haslam, Vice President for University Advancement at UNA. “Jeff was a special person in our community, and this gift honors his legacy.”
Dr. Javar Myatt-Jones spoke on behalf of Shoals Primary Care, the Premier Sponsor for the fundraising event. “Shoals Primary Care is dedicated to helping the community and the University,” said Myatt-Jones. “This event provided an excellent opportunity for us to do just that.”
A check in the amount of $22,562.00 was presented. Bowser thanked Shoals Primary Care for their sponsorship of this event, as well as all the businesses that donated items for the silent auction.
“This was truly a community event,” he said. “We are thrilled with the turnout and are happy to share that we will be doing another show on December 16, 2022.”
Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa and the University of North Alabama Culinary Arts Program are working together on a culinary event to take place April 14, 2022. Proceeds to that event will also go to the Jeffrey Charles Eubanks Endowment Fund. More information will be announced in the coming weeks.
Media Release/Selena Miller | Director of Sales and Marketing/MARRIOTT HOTELS | Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa
