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Bella Italia Gala

Ten Years and Counting!

Join us for the 10th Annual Bella Italia Gala, an evening of fine dining & philanthropy in support of the mission of The Foundation of BCC.

Event Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Location: Sea Trail Convention Center, Sunset Beach, NC

At Bella Italia, every course tells a story. Guests will be treated to a multi-course Italian dinner thoughtfully paired with wines, creating an immersive culinary experience that feels like an evening in Italy—no passport required.

Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy:

  • A gourmet Italian-inspired menu with wine pairings
  • Special remarks and exciting updates from President Gene Smith and Foundation Executive Director Teresa Nelson
  • Heartfelt stories from BCC Student Ambassadors, sharing how donor support has shaped their journeys
  • Opportunities to support scholarships and programs that change lives at BCC
  • Photo opportunities, raffles, live auction, music, and dancing

This year’s gala marks two exciting milestones:

  • The 10th anniversary of Bella Italia
  • Our first year at Sea Trail Convention Center, a stunning coastal venue that offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening

How to Become a Sponsoring Partner

When you become a Sponsoring Partner of the Bella Italia Gala, you’re not just supporting an event—you’re investing directly in the life-changing work of The Foundation of BCC.

Sponsoring Partners enjoy benefits that may include:

  • Recognition on event materials and signage
  • Reserved seating at the gala
  • Complimentary raffle tickets
  • Acknowledgment during the evening’s program
  • Visibility on BCC and Foundation communication channels and marketing materials
  • The joy in knowing that your generosity is making a difference in the lives of BCC students

Click on the button below to learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits or to reserve your Sponsoring Partner package.

A sneak peek at Sea Trail

A look back

About The Foundation of BCC

The Foundation of Brunswick Community College exists to ensure that cost is never the reason a student cannot pursue their education. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation provides:

  • Scholarships that open doors for first-time, returning, and adult learners
  • Emergency assistance to help students stay enrolled when life happens
  • Program and equipment support that keeps BCC’s learning spaces modern, relevant, and workforce-ready

Every gift—whether through sponsorship, individual giving, or attending events like Bella Italia—helps BCC students start, continue, and complete their educational journeys.

To learn more about The Foundation of BCC and how you can support its mission and the students of Brunswick Community College, contact:

Teresa Nelson, Executive Director
(910) 755-6530
[email protected]

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