A record-setting fundraising effort that will shape the creative and career development of the next generation of artists is the legacy of the Abbondànza endowment and the return of the long-running fundraising dinner for 2025.
This year, Abbondànza (Italian for abundance) took on a fresh approach and tied its celebrations to the inaugural Vibe Fest, an all-access community event that opened the doors of the University Centre for the Arts to the public to showcase the creative talents of Fine Arts students, alumni and employees. The result was a record $70,000 raised for the endowment, with attendees and sponsors contributing before and during the festivities. The Board of Governors will match all net proceeds of the event, doubling the funds dedicated to supporting experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities for Fine Arts students.
“Abbondànza unites those who believe in the arts and in arts education, and this year, we’re continuing that legacy by creating new awards in the endowment for experiential learning — such as internships, artist residencies and practicums — offering our students hands-on, real-world experiences,” says Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, Faculty of Fine Arts dean.
“These experiences help our students gain confidence, build professional networks and transition from the classroom to careers in the cultural sector, further shaping their futures and engaging our communities through creative partnerships.”
The Faculty’s long-running fundraising dinner, Abbondànza has raised more than $1.75 million to create 155 scholarships for new and continuing Fine Arts students. For over 20 years, Abbondànza has brought conga lines, sing-alongs, serenading chefs, performances, auctions and more in a celebration of creativity, community and generosity.
For former students like Nicole Wilkinson (BFA - Art ’18), receiving an Abbondànza Award allowed her to explore her studies deeper and put herself on the right educational path.
“The Abbondànza Award made me feel recognized and seen for my hard work and it gave me the chance to pursue an internship at the Galt Museum & Archives. That internship turned out to be a turning point in my life. It wasn’t just an opportunity to learn — it was where I found my calling,” says Wilkinson.
“Supporting Fine Arts students creates possibilities far beyond the classroom. It fosters creativity, critical thinking and passion — qualities that shape our communities. Today, I’m fortunate to be working as a Curatorial Assistant with the University of Alberta Museums, continuing the work I started at the Galt Museum. Everything I learned there has been foundational to what I do now, and I carry it with me every day.”
Performances at Abbondànza included a curated showcase of works from the University Art Collection, a fashion show with student-designed and created costumes for Mainstage productions and a performance from renowned members of the Music department.
“Having Abbondànza nested within Vibe Fest allows us to bring world-class talent to the forefront,” adds Davis-Fisch. “Vibe Fest highlights the diverse talents of our students, employees and alumni, and strengthens the bond between the Faculty and the broader community. It’s an event that connects us all in celebration of the transformative power of the arts.”
To contribute to the Abbondànza endowment, visit the giving web page.
The Abbondànza fundraising dinner and Vibe Fest are an example of the University of Lethbridge’s Strategic Plan in action under the strategic direction to Engage Communities. We proudly engage as a vibrant and present partner as we aim to generate knowledge and build capacity, foster mutual growth, address shared challenges and create pathways for communities to thrive.