April 4, 2007

Contact:
Lourdes Rodriguez-Barrera
NSU Office of Public Affairs
954-262-5309

Wynne Avellanet
NSU’s Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies
954-262-7162

Enchanted Evening Benefits Early Learning Programs
Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies hosts
“Eighth Annual Evening Under the Stars” on April 28

Eclectic culinary delights accompanied by great entertainment and a silent auction with dozens of exciting purchase opportunities up for bid - it all adds up to a great evening for a good cause during the Eighth Annual Evening Under the Stars at Nova Southeastern University’s Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies (MSI).

Beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, the institute’s home at the Jim & Jan Moran Family Center Village will be transformed into an underwater wonder for an enchanted evening themed Under the Sea. Dive into dozens of possibilities by bidding on relaxing vacation getaways, family passes to various Florida theme attractions, dinner packages to a variety of South Florida hot spots, tickets to i-Village Live, signed sports paraphernalia, a one-of-a-kind, child-sized furniture piece personalized by children attending MSI and much more.

This crown jewel of fundraising events supports the scholarship funds of the Early Learning Programs at MSI. Hundreds of individuals-- parents, local community leaders and businesses - come together each year to lend their support. Among this year’s business lending a helping hand include Benihana,  Guy Harvey Enterprises, Miami Dolphins, Muvico Theaters, New York City Opera, Rooms to Go,  SeaWorld Adventure Park and Whole Foods Market.

Additionally, the event will honor the teachers of MSI’s Family Center Preschool, Parenting Place, Baudhuin Preschool, and Infant and Toddler Programs.

Tickets are $25 per person or $45 per couple, and include an evening complete with assorted culinary treats, select cocktails, and live entertainment. RSVP is required.

The Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies, housed in the Jim & Jan Moran Family Center Village of NSU, (7600 SW 36th St) provides a range of programs designed to strengthen families and enhance the ability of parents and caregivers to foster the healthy development of children. A state-of-the-art demonstration and training facility, the Jim & Jan Moran Family Center Village enables the institute to showcase best practices in the fields of early childhood education, special education, family support, and parenting education. For more information, log onto http://www.nova.edu/msi/

For more information on Evening Under the Stars, please contact Wynne Avellanet, Assistant Director of Development and Special Events at the Mailman Segal Institute for Early Childhood Studies by calling (954) 262-7162.