The Austin Community College District (ACC) will host its second annual Boots & Bats Gala supporting student scholarships on Saturday, November 2, at ACC Highland, Building 4000 (6101 Highland Campus Dr.).

“We’re excited to bring back this incredible opportunity to give,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president/CEO. “ACC is committed to serving our community and helping all students reach their goals, but we know that paying for college is one of the biggest hurdles our students face. Every donation is significant. It shows a student that someone cares, and it gives them one less thing to worry about.”

The inaugural Boots & Bats Gala, hosted in November, raised more than $160,000.

“Scholarships are powerful,” says Vandela Harcrow, ACC math student and scholarship recipient. “I knew going to college was going to be a challenge. I always want to give 100 percent to everything, but it’s hard when you’re juggling work, school, and raising a family. My scholarship renewed my confidence. It made me feel like someone believed in me and inspired me to stay on my path.”

The event, hosted in partnership with renowned Southwest artist Amado Pena’s Art Has Heart Foundation (AHH), features live music, a live and silent auction, and a cocktail reception with light hors d’oeuvres prepared by ACC Culinary Arts students.

Tickets will go on sale in spring, with proceeds supporting student scholarships at ACC and the AHH.

For more information, visit austincc.edu/bootsandbats.